Operation Calm to Strengthen Resilience of Flood-prone Communities

The Government has launched Operation CALM (Cleaning, Advising, Leveraging and Maintaining), a nationwide clean-up and public sensitisation programme aimed at strengthening the resilience of flood-prone communities across Jamaica.

Spearheaded by the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), and involving partnership with local stakeholders and community representatives, the programme is focused on removing bulky waste and educating residents on proper garbage disposal to mitigate flooding.

Addressing the unveiling on Tuesday (June 2) in Rocky Point, Clarendon, Local Government and Community Development Minister, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, said the launch of CALM represents the first dedicated initiative to improve the resilience of traditional flood-prone communities before and during the Atlantic Hurricane season.

He noted that the programme is particularly significant for residents of vulnerable areas such as Rocky Point, which has long been susceptible to flooding, storm surges and hurricane-related damage.

The Minister said the initiative was inspired in part by the lessons learned from Hurricane Melissa and other severe weather events, which exposed the vulnerability of several coastal and low-lying communities.

He pointed out that Rocky Point experienced extensive flooding and storm surge impacts during recent storms and stressed the need for proactive measures to reduce risks before disasters occur.

“Despite predictions of a less active hurricane season, all it takes is one storm to change everything,” he noted.

Explaining the meaning behind the acronym CALM, Mr. McKenzie said the “C” stands for clearing flood-prone areas of bulky waste; “A” represents advising residents about their responsibilities in managing waste and maintaining preparedness; “L” refers to leveraging the support of community leaders, social development groups and municipal corporations; while “M” signifies maintaining a sustained presence in vulnerable communities throughout the hurricane season.

He emphasised that the initiative is not intended as a one-time activity but, rather, a long-term intervention designed to build resilience and strengthen disaster readiness.

The first phase of Operation CALM will be implemented in 94 communities across the island.

In Clarendon alone, 18 communities, including Rocky Point, Portland Cottage, Milk River, Alley and Osbourne Store, will benefit from the programme.

Additional communities have been identified across Kingston and St. Andrew, St. Elizabeth, St. James, and Westmoreland, where teams will undertake clean-up activities, public education campaigns and ongoing monitoring throughout the hurricane season.

Mr. McKenzie said the success of the initiative will depend not only on government agencies but also on the active participation of residents. He urged Jamaicans to take greater responsibility for proper waste disposal, noting that indiscriminate dumping in gullies and waterways contributes significantly to flooding during heavy rainfall.

The Minister called on communities to reject unsanitary practices and work together to protect their surroundings, stressing that civic pride and personal responsibility are critical components of disaster preparedness and sustainable community development. He expressed confidence that the programme will help communities become better prepared for future storms while fostering stronger partnerships between government and citizens.