Siltation at Abary River threatens livelihoods – RDC hears

…mud build-up restricting boat access

Heavy siltation at the mouth of the Abary River is threatening livelihoods and raising concerns about drainage in parts of Region Five (Mahaica–Berbice) – this was the issue taking centre stage at Thursday’s Regional Democratic Council (RDC) meeting.
Councillor Emerson Benjamin told the council that the channel has become heavily clogged with mud, warning that the situation is already affecting fisherfolk and those who depend on the industry.
“The entire channel is mud, and it is affecting the livelihood of not only the fishermen but all those who are connected to fishing,” Benjamin said.
The Abary fishing landing supports approximately 75 boats and an estimated 200 fishermen, along with dozens of vendors, processors, and huskers whose income depends on the daily catch. Any disruption to access at the river mouth, stakeholders say, has a direct and immediate impact on hundreds of livelihoods.
Checks at the location by this publication show mud build-up across sections of the channel, with shallow areas and restricted flow making navigation increasingly difficult, particularly at low tide when boats are forced to wait or risk grounding.
Benjamin warned that the situation could worsen with the onset of the rainy season, noting that the Abary channel also plays a critical role in draining agricultural lands.
“Abary Creek is the main channel for draining the backlands, and if it is not cleared before the rains, we are looking at serious problems for rice farmers, cattle farmers, and residents,” he said.
He said that current efforts are insufficient to address the scale of the problem, pointing to the need for more effective intervention.
“Excavators alone cannot solve this problem. What is needed is dredging, especially with the rainy season approaching.”
Responding to the concerns, Regional Chairman Ricardo Phillips said the matter is already engaging the attention of central authorities, with the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) having conducted site visits.
“The Ministry of Agriculture, through the NDIA, has already visited and is conducting a technical review of the channel so that we can resolve the issue,” Phillips said.
He explained that the build-up is linked to natural processes, including the movement of material from inland areas, while authorities have also noted that the Abary River mouth is prone to recurring siltation due to coastal currents and the movement of drift mud along the shoreline.
“From what we understand, there is heavy siltation coming from the backlands along the rice fields, which is contributing to the build-up at the mouth of the river.”
The NDIA has previously indicated that such conditions are not new and require continuous management, as the shifting coastal environment can result in repeated blockages even after interventions.
“It is a work in progress, and the government is working to have a speedy resolution to the issue affecting fisherfolk and drainage,” Phillips added.
The Abary landing has seen investment over the years, including approximately $14 million spent to construct a concrete tarmac at the sluice to improve conditions for landing and handling catches. Nationally, hundreds of millions of dollars have also been invested in upgrading fishing landing sites, with works including improved access, lighting, and facilities.