THE EDITOR, Sir:The Gleaner of Thursday December 29, 2005, carried a warning from the Geological Department of the University of the West Indies that we should brace ourselves in the current year 2006 for severe hurricanes and rainfall. If we continue to build on susceptible land areas, the results could be devastating.
This brings most strongly to mind the circumstances of myself and fellow residents of Huddersfield, Boscobel, St. Mary. I reside under the shadows of a once-luxuriant mountain range. Over recent years, we have seen trees destroyed and some massive structures perched dangerously on the crest of the range.
GEOLOGICAL PREDICTIONS
The recent heavy rains brought down tons of water demolishing several house borders and fences below. The roads were totally destroyed. If the predictions of the geological department are correct, we will face massive landslides and possibly destruction of houses above and below.
About two and a half years ago, when one of these houses was being constructed, a huge boulder rolled down the mountain. Residents called the local police to speak with the builders on the matter. The house below escaped destruction when the boulder lodged between a tree stump and a water tank. We warned the local council of the danger. We heard nothing of it.
We wonder if the local council ever granted permission for these buildings. The Geological Department has issued a warning. As humble residents, we are simply re-echoing this studied warning.
I am, etc.,
A.S. BYFIELD
P.O. Box 4162
Boscobel P.O., St. Mary
