Freak storm at Lima Housing Scheme: Regional authorities activate emergency response as rebuilding process begins

– 30 provided with temporary accommodations

One day after a devastating freak storm ripped through the Lima Housing Scheme, Essequibo Coast, leaving a trail of destruction and uncertainty for those affected, the regional administration immediately activated its emergency response system.
The freak storm on Monday has completely destroyed six homes, displacing about 30 residents, including children.

However, as the response system was activated, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) was contacted to disconnect electricity in the affected area, while the Regional Enhancement Team and Community Infrastructure Improvement Project (CIIP) workers were mobilised to assist with clean-up and debris removal.
The Guyana Police Force (GPF) also intensified patrols to safeguard residents’ belongings.
A team of senior regional officials, including Regional Vice Chairman Humace Oodit, Deputy Regional Executive Officer Omesh Sasenaryan, and technical officers, conducted on-site assessments and coordinated immediate relief.
The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) later distributed emergency supplies, such as tarpaulins and cleaning hampers, to the affected families.
During a follow-up coordination meeting with regional and Joint Services officials, several key measures were finalised to support affected families. These include daily meals for the affected persons, which began on Monday. Nevertheless, while temporary accommodation was offered, the affected persons chose to stay with relatives and friends.
In addition, the reconstruction process commenced on Tuesday under the supervision of regional leaders, with assistance from the Men on Mission (MoM) initiative and the Public Works Department.
Further, a workforce comprising 90 CIIP employees and 10 skilled personnel from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has been mobilised to provide carpentry and masonry support.
To ensure effective and fair distribution of aid, the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) is also developing a comprehensive database to assess and meet the specific needs of each household.
Meanwhile, two persons who sustained minor injuries were treated and discharged from the hospital.
Regional Chairman Devin Mohan commended the swift collaboration among regional departments, the Joint Services, and national agencies.
“This disaster tested our resilience but also revealed the unity and compassion of our people. Together, we will rebuild stronger than before,” he said.
The RDC has also established a Disaster Risk Management Committee to strengthen emergency preparedness and long-term resilience across Region Two. Enhanced security patrols by the GPF will continue in the Lima Housing Scheme until full normalcy is restored. (Raywattie Deonarine)