Horrors on road to Grande Riviere

THE EDITOR: Owing to the uncertainty, with regard to sea and air transport to Tobago during this holiday season, I opted for a vacation on our island’s northeastern coast, more particularly Grande Riviere. I was most eager to make this trip since my last visit there was 40 years ago. It was enjoyable, since nothing has changed much, except for the condition of the roads, which to a large extent is in a state of neglect. The only signs of repair from Toco onwards being some painted lines on the edges to signify that landslides exist. Driving on some sections may be compared to a ride on a roller coaster due to the uneven surface. The most life threatening scene, however is situated just on the approach to Matelot. Here a large wall over 50 feet long and almost three feet wide  leans precariously at an angle of 60 degrees to the road’s surface.

Again, there is enough indication that the authorities are aware of the danger, for a sign posted nearby  states — “Beware Leaning Wall” — another accident waiting to happen . All this in a country blessed with resources  to get the job done  except that the only skills possessed by the workforce, seemingly, is that of cutting grass. So what is the next best thing? Create  CEPEP, just cut grass, stick croton in the ground, paint stones, and build Amerindian sheds. Do no other physical enhancement of the environment for posterity. The other vexing question is, why does one have to travel all the way around Toco to get there from Port-of-Spain? What is preventing the construction of a road from Blanchissuese to Matelot. I guess the people to blame are the environmentalists. So what?

I have seen rubbish and rubble, dumped by contractors at Jackson Square, just a stone’s throw from Whitehall and also on Serpentine Road within view of the Divisional Police Headquarters. Who is ensuring that the persons responsible are prosecuted? It was also noteworthy to see the impressive health centres in these areas although I am informed that they operate one day per week. Should one choose a particular day to get sick? My hope is that someone with 20/20 vision will have the good sense to look into these areas and bring about some much needed relief to the residents and all the citizens in general who wish to holiday at home and arrive alive.

CHARLES TELOKA
St Ann’s