No permission given to erect fence around Cornelia Ida koker – NDC Chair
Residents are furious over the erection of a fence that gives access to a koker at Cornelia Ida, West Coast Demerara, claiming that it is a hazard to the community and as such, called on the relevant authorities to intervene.
The erected gate and fence which block access to the koker
This issue was made public a few days ago via a video on social media but the Stewartville-Cornelia Ida Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) said it only became aware of the blockage about two weeks ago.
Its Chairman, Jainarine Narine, when contacted on Tuesday, explained that the issue was brought to his attention by officials of the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate.
“Personnel from the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate would have approached me concerning it because we did not give any permission to erect any structures there. The NDC cannot give permission to do that on Government reserve and the records show that no permission was given,” the Chairman explained.
He noted that since the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has jurisdiction over the reserve, they are responsible for removing the fence. Narine said the Council is willing to provide any assistance to facilitate its removal.
According to him, serious concerns have emanated from the issue, since it prevents access in cases of an emergency.
Sluices along the West Coast Demerara stretch have been subjected to breaches, overtopping and other occurrences which require immediate works and assessment. As it stands, the fence prevents access around the Government-operated koker.
Guyana Times understands that the barricade was constructed weeks ago, but has now been brought to the attention of officials.
