City Council, vendors in joint effort to clean clogged drains along Regent Street

The Mayor and City Council of Georgetown and vendors who ply their trade along Regent Street have received support from the central government for a joint effort this Sunday to clean clogged drains along the busy commercial area.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, on Tuesday, conducted a walk-about exercise on Regent Street.

He said the engagement followed reports, premised on rumours, that stalls were being broken and removed on the instructions of the government.

And following the visit, he told reporters that no stalls were broken during the exercise which commenced last Sunday.

“We want people to ply their trade and to do so in a structured and organised way,” Dharamlall said.

He observed that vendors themselves complained of clogged drains and consequential flooding, especially during the rainy season.

“Everyone indicated that they will help to clean the drains on Sunday,” he said.

The Local Government Minister said he wanted to ensure that no vendor was being removed, while at the same time, ensuring that the city is maintained.

“All we want is for the place to remain tidy and everyone gets a fair chance to do their business,” Dharamlall added.

Meanwhile, the minister was accompanied by Town Clerk, Candace Nelson who told reporters that the Council recognises the importance of a clean environment.

Last Sunday, the City Council commenced the removal of palettes used by the vendors that were blocking the drains.

And next Sunday, with assistance from vendors, they will move to desilt the drains.

“Nobody will be displaced. All vendors will be returned to their spots after the exercise is completed,” Nelson said.

During the interaction with the vendors, the minister assured them of the government’s commitment to ensure their business is done in a proper way.