Reconstruction of the Tarouba Road

THE EDITOR: The Tarouba Road in the Marabella area is being used as the main thoroughfare to the construction site of the new NHA Housing Development. Since the inception of this project construction, approximately one year ago, this road is being frequently subjected to very heavy traffic and equipment on a daily basis. Initially, this road was not constructed for the use of such heavy traffic and equipment as are presently being used on the construction of the NHA housing project.

As a result, the condition of the road has deteriorated to such an extent that is has become impassable in several areas along the road. Several areas of the road have caved into the drains. The drains are all clogged. The entrances to the homes of several residents have been severely damaged, causing much inconvenience to access their own homes. The WASA water supply piping, which is installed along the course of this road, is damaged frequently by the use of the heavy vehicular traffic and equipment. Almost every day a new leak shows up. The frequent excavations by WASA in affecting repairs only add to the problem as the road is left in slush. The road at present is in a deplorable condition. Unfortunately, absolutely no maintenance is being done on this road.

The situation has been communicated to the Works and Transport Minister, the Mayor of San Fernando, the Chief Executive Officer of the San Fernando City Corporation as well as the city engineer. The city engineer is saying that NH International promised to remain the road when the housing project is completed. How are the tax-paying residents expected to accept such foolishness. The San Fernando City Corporation to whom taxes are being paid must accept responsibility for the maintenance and upkeep of this road and do something urgently.

It must be noted that the residents of Tarouba Road have never resorted to blocking the road-way or indulging in any sort of protest action as a means of highlighting this very serious problem, as has been successfully done in many parts of the country. The Tarouba Road district falls within the jurisdiction of the San Fernando City Corporation, and as a result forms part of the City of San Fernando. It is the only part of the city where the residents pay city rates but are unable to enjoy city benefits. This situation is most unfortunate, unjust and borders on discrimination. I am calling on the San Fernando City Corporation to respond urgently.

REX MAHADEO
Marabella