PNCR/APNU Raises Alarm Over Corentyne Flooding, Cites Longstanding Drainage Problems

The People’s National Congress Reform/A Partnership for National Unity (PNCR/APNU) has expressed concern over worsening flooding along the Corentyne Coast, warning that residents, farmers and small business owners are facing increasing hardship as floodwaters continue to affect several communities.

In a statement issued by its Region Six arm, the opposition partnership said Villages No. 51, No. 53 and surrounding communities have experienced rising water levels over the past several days, resulting in inundated yards, damaged crops, restricted movement and threats to property and livelihoods.

The flooding follows days of heavy rainfall across Guyana, which has affected communities in multiple regions and prompted government officials to conduct assessments and deploy drainage interventions. Along the Corentyne Coast, however, the PNCR/APNU said the situation has exposed longstanding concerns about drainage infrastructure and maintenance.

“Residents have repeatedly raised concerns about the state of canals, kokers, and drainage systems, issues that require urgent and sustained attention,” the partnership said.

According to the statement, Regional Democratic Councillors and Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) councillors representing the party are currently conducting assessments in affected communities, engaging residents, documenting losses and identifying urgent needs.

The party said the exercise is aimed at ensuring that the full extent of the damage is brought to the attention of relevant authorities and that affected residents receive the assistance they require.

The opposition also disclosed that its representatives have begun engaging government agencies, regional officials, drainage and irrigation authorities and emergency response bodies in an effort to secure immediate interventions.

“The Party’s representatives have commenced engagements with the relevant government agencies, regional authorities, drainage and irrigation officials, and emergency response bodies to advocate for immediate relief measures and interventions aimed at reducing the impact of the flooding,” the statement said.

Particular emphasis, it noted, is being placed on improving drainage, clearing blocked waterways and ensuring that vulnerable households receive timely assistance.

The flooding has once again placed the spotlight on Guyana’s drainage and irrigation system, particularly in low-lying coastal communities where residents frequently contend with flooding during periods of intense rainfall. Local government officials and residents have long complained about the need for more regular maintenance of canals, drains and other water-management infrastructure to reduce the impact of seasonal flooding.

Against this backdrop, the PNCR/APNU called on the government to mobilise all available resources to provide relief to affected residents, including emergency drainage works, assistance for farmers who have suffered losses and support for households impacted by floodwaters.

The party also urged residents to report flooding-related concerns to their local representatives so that issues can be documented and escalated to the appropriate authorities.

“At this difficult time, PNCR/APNU stands in solidarity with the residents of No. 51, No. 53, and all other affected communities along the Corentyne Coast. We remain committed to advocating for immediate relief and long-term solutions that will better protect our communities from recurring flooding,” the statement added.

The assessments by opposition councillors come as concerns continue to mount over the impact of flooding on agricultural production and rural livelihoods in Region Six, one of the country’s most important farming areas.