Floodwaters in Vryman’s Erven recede

Three days after heavy rainfall caused the streets in the Vryman’s Erven Housing Scheme in New Amsterdam, Berbice, to become flooded, the waters have finally receded.

During a visit to the area on Friday, all streets were visible, and residents were able to move about normally.

The flooding was first reported on Tuesday, following intense rainfall the day before, and the water remained stagnant until Friday.

Residents are frustrated with this ongoing issue, which has troubled them for over a decade.

One resident noted that clogged drains, filled with thick vegetation, were to blame for the streets disappearing under water even after a brief downpour.

In these challenging conditions, some residents have had to carry their footwear while navigating the floods, while others have sought refuge on higher ground, such as Angoy’s Avenue.

Taxi services were also impacted; many drivers refused to operate in flooded areas, and those who did significantly raised their fares from $500 to $1000.

On Wednesday, the New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council acknowledged the problem in a Facebook post, stating,” Dear citizens of Vryman’s Erven. We have experience another block at our Smythfield culvert.  We are working on getting the stuff cleared from the GWI pipes that runs across the culvert. Thank you for your patience.”