Dam may ease the flooding

A dam would allow for the control of the flow of water in the catchment areas in the mountains. By controlling the flow of water the authorities could reduce the excess flow reaching the Caroni Plains that leads to the perennial flooding in this area.

A dam would also be a source of water in the dry season and could provide energy in the form of hydroelectricity.

There is no need to be reminded that the country presently relies on a source of energy that is gradually diminishing.

On the negative side, a dam will have environmental and ecological consequences which will have to be evaluated by professionals.

However, it should be noted that a number of quarries presently operate in the Northern Range, inflicting terrible damage to the environment but they seem to operate undisturbed.

On a recent flight to Tobago, I was saddened by the destruction, seen from the air, to the environment by quarry operators.

I counted at least ten open pits where all the plant cover was removed and the land was visibly scarred.

So if they are allowed to do this, a dam can certainly be considered in light of the many benefits that can accrue.

C RODRIGUEZ Petit Valley