Latest update April 25th, 2024 12:01 AM
Dec 12, 2008 Features / Columnists
The Parrot is feeling cold as a result of the continuous unusually high persistent rainfall that we experienced over the past few days. I am only cold, but those who reside along the coast are probably being haunted by the memories of 2005. Since then, just the sight of dark clouds is enough to evoke the feeling of hydrophobia. Much has been done since to prevent a repeat. Large sums of monies have been spent to install additional pumps and to vastly improve drainage and irrigation.
This is against the backdrop that our country lies some six feet below the level of the mighty Atlantic and the fact that our drainage system, which was designed decades ago, can only effectively handle some one and a half inches of rainfall within a twenty-four hour period. Anything above that will automatically result in flooding despite the sums being spent and related infrastructural developments. This is the reality.
Barring the game of cricket which has the ability to instantaneously upset the rain cycle so implemented by the Almighty, our weather seems no longer predictable in terms of period and intensity. The levels seen in 2005 were an indicator of the immense changes our climate has, and is experiencing. Climate change is here and the quicker all are to accept that it will have tremendous impact on us here and across the globe, only then can changes in attitude in our relation with the environment evolve. Attitudes must change immediately. Those who are quick to dump their refuse into drains and canals must desist.
All across the country some are bent on this practice which clogs waterways and contributes to the floods. While it can be argued that after the drainage threshold is breached thereby resulting in flooding, the bottles and food boxes and tyres and old refrigerators and old cars and parts, further strain the system, thus resulting in the time span for water accumulation to be vastly reduced. By extension, it increases the time span for the water to recede after the rains would have stopped. In other words, think if all drains and canals were completely free of any form of garbage; with heavy rains the water will recede faster and the time frame for accumulation will be increased. Even if accumulation occurs, it will not be for an extended period.
These are not the days when as youngsters we look forward to playing in the rain and wading in the trenches. This is a time where all must be involved. While changes in the climate have been occurring for decades, the effects are now being felt. Developed countries with all their resources are frequently being battered. Some communities in Louisiana have not recovered from Hurricane Katrina. Brazil is currently experiencing devastating floods in which lives have been lost. England and other parts of Europe have had similar experiences, so did India, Haiti, the Dominican Republic and parts of Central America; all as a result of climate change.
Our Head of State has been relentless in his efforts to not only highlight the realities of these changes, but to propose initiatives as to how our country and others can benefit and be spared the brunt of the impact in the future. These initiatives which have been commended in Europe and North America, must continue to be supported. It’s a wake up call for all; you too Hammie. Squawk! Squawk!
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