By Mark DaCosta- On February 18, 2025, Azruddin Mohamed, the Leader of the Opposition, made a significant visit to the residents of Panday Street, located in Bath Settlement on the West Coast of Berbice. This visit aimed to shine a light on the pressing issues that have plagued the community for years, yet have remained unresolved despite the awareness of the authorities.
Bath Settlement is strategically situated in Region 5, bordered by the villages of Bush Lot and Woodley Park, making it a critical area along the route connecting the Berbice River Bridge to our capital. Historically, this settlement emerged as a result of the Bath Sugar Estate, serving as a housing area for sugar workers following the end of indentureship. The legacy of this estate still echoes today, as many families continue to depend on agriculture, contributing significantly to local and national markets.
However, recent developments have cast a shadow over this once-vibrant community. During his visit, Azruddin Mohamed highlighted numerous concerns, painting a grim picture of the current state of affairs. Firstly, residents have been grappling with the issue of illegal drug activities, particularly the sale of ganja and cocaine within a notorious drug yard. According to local voices, “persons operating this illegal strip are contaminating the youthful population.” The residents’ desperation is palpable, as they call for urgent intervention; the community fears for their children’s safety and future.
Moreover, the lack of consistent garbage disposal services has compounding effects on health and community hygiene. Residents reported that waste is often left uncollected for extended periods, leading to unbearable odours and health risks. The stench has reportedly contributed to sickness among the populace, further highlighting a failure in local governance.
Security has also become a major issue, with simple larceny incidents on the rise. Residents voiced their frustrations over break-ins, theft of personal belongings, and even of livestock. Despite reporting these crimes to the Fort Wellington Police Station, there has been little to no action from the authorities, prompting residents to question the efficacy of the current security measures.
In addition to these pressing concerns, the community centre, once a focal point for youth activities and social gatherings, has been left in disrepair and neglect. This abandonment has contributed to the frustration of young people who, lacking positive outlets, have turned to less desirable activities. As noted by community members, “this facility has been neglected for years,” underscoring the urgent need for governmental support and restoration of local structures.
As the main opposition party in the National Assembly, We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) is calling on the relevant authorities to take immediate action to address these long-standing issues. The cries from Bath Settlement reflect a larger narrative of neglect and disconnection from policymakers who seem oblivious to the daily struggles of ordinary citizens, the opposition party noted.
The demographic composition of Bath Settlement primarily consists of individuals of Indo-Guyanese descent, a heritage stemming from its establishment as a residential area for sugar estate workers. Recent trends depict a growing and diversifying population, although the sense of community resilience is increasingly tested. With housing schemes being developed in the vicinity, the pressure on local resources is expected to rise, making it crucial for the government to engage with the community to ensure sustainable growth.
The economic landscape of Bath has notably shifted over the years. While agriculture remains a cornerstone, the settlement has also developed a commercial presence with supermarkets and local vendors. However, economic growth cannot thrive amidst unresolved social issues, which pose risks to both safety and prosperity.
Recent government initiatives have included a commitment of more than $1.2 billion GYD for infrastructural developments in Region 5, which some critics argue have not sufficiently filtered down to communities like Bath. The allocation of over 600 house lots in the area is meant to support the growing population, yet without addressing the foundational issues of crime, health, and community engagement, such developments may prove futile.
As Azruddin Mohamed concluded his visit, the message was clear: the cries of Bath Settlement cannot be ignored. Amidst an abundance of governmental promises, everyday issues persist, alienating citizens from the very institutions meant to serve them. The call to action echoes beyond the boundaries of this small community; it is a plea for comprehensive reform that prioritises the voices and needs of all Guyana’s people. It remains to be seen whether the relevant authorities will heed these warnings or continue to let infrastructure and community programs fall by the wayside.
