Major Drain Cleaning in Falmouth Ahead of Hurricane Season
By: , May 24, 2025
Photo: Volunteers seen here assisting with the cleaning of the main drain also known as the drag line, in Falmouth, Trelawny, on May 23.
Volunteers seen here assisting with the cleaning of the main drain also known as the drag line, in Falmouth, Trelawny, on May 23.
Photo: Volunteers bagging debris removed from the main drain in Falmouth, Trelawny, on Labour Day, May 23.
Volunteers bagging debris removed from the main drain in Falmouth, Trelawny, on Labour Day, May 23.
Photo: Heavy equipment is being used to clear garbage from the main drain in Falmouth, Trelawny, on May 23. The project was the parish project for Labour Day 2025.
Heavy equipment is being used to clear garbage from the main drain in Falmouth, Trelawny, on May 23. The project was the parish project for Labour Day 2025.The Full Story
Residents, business interests and other stakeholders turned out in their numbers to undertake major drain-cleaning work in Water Square in Falmouth, Trelawny, on Friday (May 23).
Speaking with JIS News, Mayor Collen Gager said that the activity, which was the parish project for Labour Day, was a proactive move to safeguard the environment and protect the community ahead of the upcoming hurricane season.
He noted that the project involved a comprehensive clean-up of the earth drain, which runs through key sections of Falmouth and empties into the sea.
“This drain is vital for water flow and flood control but it has been heavily polluted by illegal dumping, especially from residents living nearby. With the hurricane season approaching, it is more critical than ever to ensure that our drainage systems are clear and functioning efficiently,” he pointed out.
“Coming on the eve of the hurricane season, this cleanup is not only about environmental health but also about community safety. A blocked drain can exacerbate flooding during storms, so keeping it clean helps reduce the risk of disaster,” he emphasised.
Mayor Gager also highlighted the ongoing challenge of dumping, which has resulted in plastic bottles and other debris clogging the waterway.
“This not only pollutes the environment but also hampers water flow, increasing flood risk,” he said.
He shared that ‘No Dumping’ signs will be installed to discourage illegal garbage disposal.
Mayor Gager stressed that community participation is essential for the long-term success of the project.
“After the clean-up, we will engage in an educational campaign to inform residents about the importance of proper waste disposal. We want to instil a sense of responsibility in the community, showing that keeping our environment clean is a collective effort,” he told JIS News.
He noted that the sensitisation drive will include community outreach, distribution of pamphlets, and workshops.
The project represents a collaborative effort involving multiple agencies, including the Social Development Commission (SDC), the National Solid Waste Management Authority, Scotia Bank, and the parish disaster management team.
“This is a concerted effort. We’re working hand-in-hand with various organisations to ensure the success of this initiative,” Mayor Gager pointed out.
He also noted the involvement of the police and environmental enforcement agencies to monitor and prevent illegal dumping activities.
“We will be conducting regular patrols and enforcing strict penalties for illegal waste disposal,” he emphasised.
Mayor Gager called on community members to take pride in their environment. “We must all work together to keep Falmouth clean and safe. This project is a step towards a healthier, more resilient parish, ready to face any storm that comes our way,” he said.