A water pipe sticking vertically up out of the road on Shirley Street yesterday, forcing motorists to veer around it.

THE Ministry of Works and Urban Development has announced that, as of 6pm on Monday, all roads in New Providence have been made passable.

A statement from Philip ‘Brave’ Davis, the minister responsible, said his ministry had prepared for the onslaught of Hurricane Matthew by trimming overhanging branches, clearing drains and strategically placing heavy equipment to allow immediate post-hurricane clearing operations. “This measures resulted in the floodwaters receding quickly,” he said.

“Even before the “All Clear” was given, my officers began carrying out inspections and clearing obstructions. Within 24 hours, the Ministry of Works was able to ensure that all major routes in New Providence were passable. As far as we are aware, apart from a few exceptions where the trees are entangled with power lines, there are no blockages in New Providence roads. In those cases, my Ministry is working with Bahamas Power & Light (BPL) to remove these as well.

“The cut trees have been placed on the sides of the roads. These will be removed over the next week or so to be mulched. At the same time, drains will be cleared to minimise flooding in the case of rainfall.”

He commended his staff for their enthusiasm in rising to the challenge of disaster response, “many of them working outside of the realm of terms of their employment. It is because of their commitment to our recovery that we have attained this milestone achievement within four days.”

He acknowledged the contribution of ordinary citizens, many men and women, who initiated self-help activities to clear roads, and contractors who stood ready and took action as directed.

Residents who have been missed can contact the ministry via Facebook or on 302-9700 or through NEMA on 322-6081.

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