Minister VROMI updates ahead of tropical storm

The Cabinet of the Minister of VROMI, led by Policy Advisor Luciano Nicholls, responded to several calls on Sunday following the passing of the wave, and subsequent rain showers, over the weekend. Two areas in particular stood out and the Ministry wishes to urge residents to be vigilant with the anticipated passing of Tropical Storm over the course of next 48 hours:

South Reward (Cassava Road)

Cassava Road was one of several roads paved as part of the hard-surfacing program. Due to the lack of road support (e.g. retaining wall), lack of proper drainage and the pooling of water on the road surface, in conjunction with the large amount of rainfall within a short period of time, the newly paved road and parts of the surrounding area have partially collapsed. Motorist are urged to traverse the area with caution.

Mr. Nicholls stated “that since joining the cabinet the importance of quality over quick fixes has been stressed and the result of not having this can be seen in the impact of the rain in this area”.

Ebenezer (Main Trench)

A landslide occurred causing sections of retaining wall to collapse from a property in Valley Estate down the hill and into the yard of a resident in Ebenezer. The entire wall, soil, and debris are now sitting in the trench which will have an impact of the natural drainage of water in the area in the upcoming few days. In discussion with the affected residents, it was noted that two separate complaints dated November 2022 and August 2023 were lodged and were not responded to, regarding erosion in the area around Ebenezer Main trench, which has not been regularly cleaned in over two years. The collapse of Saturday has left a two-story high hill face exposed. The Ministry has taken the decision to leave the wall in place to mitigate the impact of potential landslides but urges residents along the Main Trench (border with Ebenezer and Valley Estate) to be cautious of blockages that may obstruct the free flow of water. The Ministry commenced cleaning of trenches in the Ebenezer area two weeks ago and will continue this process. All residents along the Main trench are asked to cooperate with the contractors as we try and remedy the situation as quickly and efficiently as possible.

“The Ministry remains committed to improvement and I as Minister apologize for the impact that poor decision making and lack of response has had on the lives of many of you today, but it will get better. Incidents like these clearly demonstrate the need for proper and sustainable development going forward, including proper infrastructure management. This is why we are working to finalize the long awaited trenching contract, the establishment of the road fund, and improving upon road quality and drainage” stated Minister of VROMI Patrice Gumbs Jr.

General Preparations

District cleaning is ongoing and garbage haulers have been notified to pay keen attention to problematic areas. Over the weekend, the Ministry took the necessary steps to lower water levels in the ponds as preventive measure to flooding. The recently repaired flood pumps have been instrumental in assisting in water management. The Ministry will continue with pumping tonight from 7pm-1am which may include opening the channel into Great Bay. Residents are advised to avoid swimming in Great Bay. The Minister reminded residents to be vigilant and note that drainage is one of the biggest challenges on Sint Maarten. With the anticipated passing of the tropical storm, heavy rainfall is expected, consequently flooding is expected as well as the increased potential for erosion/landslides.