Sewage leak raises health concerns at Berbice Human Services Ministry’s office

Concerns have been raised over conditions at the Human Services and Social Security Ministry’s office at Whim, Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), where a suspected sewage leak has reportedly created an unpleasant and potentially unhealthy environment for both staff and members of the public.
Visitors to the office at Whim are being greeted by a strong, foul odour emanating from the compound.

The stench reaches nearby buildings, and small droplets of solid human waste can be seen floating outside of the septic tank when toilets are flushed, creating the most unhygienic environment.
Reports are that the source of the problem appears to be the facility’s septic system, with wastewater escaping from the ground and flowing across sections of the property.
The issue is particularly noticeable near the front entrance, the primary access point used by members of the public seeking Government services.
Signs that the problem has existed for some time are evident throughout the affected area, this publication was told.
When this newspaper visited the area, green staining and discolouration could be seen on the concrete walkway at the front of the compound, while stagnant water had collected near the entrance and around the septic system.
The building accommodates Government employees on its upper floor and serves members of the public from across the Corentyne who visit the office for assistance and other social services.
Reports indicate that complaints have been raised on numerous occasions regarding the situation.
Those complaints are said to have come from staff members as well as personnel attached to the security service assigned to the facility.
When this publication visited the facility, it was revealed that reports are that the issue has persisted despite repeated complaints.
Efforts to obtain a comment from officials within the Human Services and Social Security Ministry on the matter were unsuccessful up to press time.