Flooding partly man-made as drain obstructions worsen impact — Nandlall

The Government has acknowledged that state agencies bear some responsibility for the recent flooding, but Attorney General Anil Nandlall has sharply criticised citizens for what he described as widespread irresponsible behaviour that worsens the situation.

Speaking Tuesday night following heavy weekend rainfall that inundated Georgetown and coastal communities, Nandlall said central government, regional authorities, neighbourhood democratic councils (NDCs), and agencies such as the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority must “accept some amount of responsibility” for the flooding.

However, he stressed that one of the “main causes” of the flooding is the conduct of citizens.

According to the Attorney General, visits to affected communities revealed “dozens of man-made obstructions” in drains and canals, including improperly constructed bridges and filled-in drains that block the flow of water.

“These bridges and other structures simply block the drains… in other cases they impede the free flow of water,” Nandlall said, noting that even a single obstruction can cause an entire street to flood.

He also highlighted the dumping of garbage in drainage systems as a major contributor to flooding, describing “astonishing volumes” of waste — including bottles and boxes — clogging canals, particularly along the East Coast.

“That is what leads to flooding,” he said.

Nandlall expressed concern about what he described as a growing disregard for environmental responsibility, recounting encounters with residents who refused to clear drains outside their homes.

“People flatly told me no, they’re not going to do it,” he said, adding that some residents only take responsibility for their immediate property, even while standing in floodwaters caused by blocked drains.

He contrasted this with past practices where residents maintained drains in front of their homes, arguing that civic responsibility has declined.

While reiterating that authorities must improve drainage management, Nandlall said citizens must also play their part.

“People have a responsibility to keep their environment clean,” he stated.