The Government of Dominica in collaboration with the Basic Needs Trust Fund(BNTF) will undertake a 1.2 million dollar project for the construction of storm drains in the community of Grand Fond, which is geared at improving the resiliency of the area.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Community Development, Lucien Blackmoore, explained, “This ninth program is part of three key areas that the bank in collaboration with Government is focusing on. In terms of infrastructure development we are looking at access and drainage, education and human resource development, and water and sanitation; and of course this project falls under access and drainage. And for us here in Grand Fond, access and drainage is very important. Access was recently upgraded and now we have to make sure we mitigate against all the ills and perils that come about as a result of natural disasters. So we are ensuring that Grand Fond is part of Government’s focus in terms of we becoming the first climate resilient nation in the world”.
Meanwhile, Parliamentary Representative, Hon. Greta Roberts praised the work done by the BNTF around the island.
She said, “All these projects have had a significant impact on the lives of the people of Grand Fond, Morne Jaune and Riviere Cyrique and this storm drain project is no exception. As Minister responsible for Citizen Empowerment, I want to acknowledge and applaud the work that BNTF is doing across the island. I am aware that project undertaken by BNTF are as a result of the engagement of citizens in community and national development”.
The project involves the construction of concrete drains, catch pits and retaining walls as well as the construction of some culvert crossings road reinstatement. Garbage cranes will also be installed and and all sediment, garbage and vegetation will be removed.
Photo credit: GIS
