Gov’t Allocates $400 Million For Flood Mitigation

The Government has made significant allocation for flood mitigation and disaster preparedness activities in response to Tropical Storm Melissa.

Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development with Responsibility for Works, Hon. Robert Morgan, said that up to $400 million has been provided to bolster mitigation efforts in parishes across the island.

He was speaking at a special briefing on preparedness for Tropical Storm Melissa at Jamaica House in Kingston on Friday (Oct. 24).

“Initially, the National Works Agency (NWA) at the instruction of the Prime Minister [Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness] allocated $200 million that went to mitigation efforts, primarily from the eastern side of the island to the southern side of the island, which focused on parishes that are deemed most vulnerable,” Minister Morgan said.

“Recognising the evolution of the movement of the storm the Prime Minister instructed that an additional $200 million be allocated for disaster preparedness,” he added.

Minister Morgan further noted that all constituencies have received at least $3 million to aid in the disaster mitigation efforts, which will be spearheaded by the NWA in collaboration with Members of Parliament and other parties within these areas.

Meanwhile, the Minister said that special focus in being placed on flood-prone and low-lying areas, as well as several national assets like Sandy Gully.

“We are also focused on Portland Cottage, sections of Portland, St. Mary, St. Thomas and other low-lying and flood-prone areas particularly in St. Elizabeth and Manchester which, based on our experience with [Hurricane] Beryl would have faced significant damage due to flooding,” he noted.

He said that the NWA has been fully activated to assist with the national disaster preparedness effort, which includes strategically placing equipment across the island and engaging local contractors to remove debris or clear roads.

During the storm, the agency will observe and collaborate with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) in emergency situations where vulnerable people may have challenges, Minister Morgan said.

He indicated that after the storm, “the National Works Agency will lead in creating single lane access to whatever roads and thoroughfares may be closed, with primary focus on providing access to the emergency services.”

The agency will assess critical national infrastructure and provide temporary remedial efforts for damaged roads.