GEORGETOWN, Guyana — A massive drainage upgrade programme will soon roll out across Guyana’s capital, Georgetown, as part of the government’s wider plan to restore, modernise and beautify the city, President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced Saturday.
Speaking at the commissioning of the new Cummings Lodge Water Treatment Plant, Ali said a complete GIS-based mapping and condition survey of every drain in Georgetown is already underway.
“I’ve already directed that the full mapping and condition survey of every drain in the city be done and placed on GIS,” he said. “After that, we will launch a massive drainage programme across every street, every alley, every single area in Georgetown.”
The president said the drainage initiative will provide the foundation for a broader urban transformation strategy to “rescue and revitalise Georgetown,” including upgrades to housing, recreational spaces and core infrastructure.
“Your government is actively pursuing the full rescue of Georgetown,” Ali said. “We have to clean it up, fix it up, nice it up, and place it among the most beautiful cities in this region.”
The announcement follows pointed remarks Ali made during a press conference last month, when he criticised years of poor drainage maintenance and warned that the central government would intervene if the oppostion People’s National Congress (PNC) -controlled city administration failed to perform its duties. He said then that persistent flooding and clogged canals were unacceptable in a transforming nation and that Georgetown “will not be left behind.”
On Saturday, Ali signaled that the government is now taking direct responsibility for urban upgrades.
The president also said a detailed mapping of all housing stock and recreational facilities in the capital has begun to support a sustainable urban housing plan and improve the quality of life for residents.
He called on citizens to support the transformation.
“The people of Georgetown will have choices to make,” he said. “We want you to walk this long journey with us.”
Ali stressed that revitalising the capital is an essential component of Guyana’s national development agenda.
“We are building a modern country,” he said. “And Georgetown must reflect the pride and progress of our nation.”