Chaos at St Mary’s/Freeport Junction

THE EDITOR: Is there anyone in authority who is observing what is taking place at St Mary’s Junction, Carapichaima? This very busy intersection has already emerged to be an eyesore. In the small triangular piece of public land a bus stop was constructed some years ago which is very convenient for travellers. The bus stop faces the Southern Main Road. Behind the bus stop a shoemaker erected a shoe repair shop facing east at the beginning of the Beaucarro Road at the O km mark. This has been extended by another occupier into a large clothing store. And as if to stop his expansion the nearby transport company placed a large trailer facing in an east-west direction.

Recently, another enterprising businessman built a pork shop next to the bus stop facing the Southern Main Road. All of these occupiers pose a real danger to the public. Besides, they are occupying public land illegally. Soon they may claim ownership, if they already have not done so. A similar situation exists at the beginning of Waterloo Road. There is not much space so a few illegal structures have been erected in what is a road reserve. The Anglican Church has done well in fencing off its property and clearing some of these illegal structures erected on its lands. Now they have been shifted onto the road reserve with other itinerants such as doubles vendor, meat shop etc. One gentleman used one shed as his house.

One is not against persons making an honest living. But how can someone construct permanent structures, and be allowed to do so in a very busy area like St Mary’s/Freeport Junction, and the authorities do nothing about it. What about the interest of the public? Can’t the open space at the bus stop be properly fixed with benches and flowers to enhance the area and add to the convenience of the public? The Freeport Police Station is not far away yet they do nothing. Corporation officials pass by every day yet they seem not to observe. I have written the Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo Corporation but they have not responded to the situation. Is it any wonder there is a disturbing lawlessness and even anarchy in our country? Will action be taken to rectify this situation in the new year?

KP SINGH
Carapichaima