Letter of the Day | Build back Black River better

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Long before Hurricane Melissa devastated Black River I wrote repeatedly expressing my concern about the visible decline and neglect of the town. Hurricane Beryl provided an early warning, then came the destructive force of Hurricane Melissa. Nearly a year later, and with another Hurricane season underway, there remains little visible evidence of a comprehensive plan to restore the town or secure the future of its residents.

Despite reports of billions of dollars flowing into the country for recovery and reconstruction, many affected citizens are still waiting for meaningful assistance. As one drives through the affected communities, the question becomes unavoidable; How will the most vulnerable recover without a sustained infusion of resources, support and investment? 

What is particularly troubling being the growing disconnect between government announcement and community engagements. During a recent visit to the town the PM announced plans to relocate the residents of Parottee. Yet critical questions remain unanswered. Where will these residents be relocated? What time line has been established? What compensation, if any, will be provided? Most importantly were the affected people consulted before such a consequential declaration was made? I hope this will be handled judiciously so that next storm around won’t be in a teacup.

Effective governance requires consultation, transparency and respect for the people whose lives will be affected by policy decisions. Heritage, culture, family memories, and community identity are essential considerations in any plan for progress.

I firmly believe that Black River can emerge stronger from this tragedy. I envision a rebuilt town featuring a vibrant water front district, environmentally sustainable infrastructure, resilient commercial spaces and thoughtfully designed residential communities. Modern engineering and proper planning can produce structures capable of withstanding increasing severe weather events. It is worth remembering that many of the buildings lost to the storm were aging structures from another era long overdue for replacement. 

The question facing us today is not whether Black River should be rebuilt but how. Will reconstruction be guided by vision, consultation, and resilience, or by expediency and political pronouncements? The people of Black River deserve a clear plan, honest dialogue and decisive actions.

As another hurricane season unfolds time is not a luxury. The future of Black River hangs in the balance. 

BURNETT ROBINSON

blpprob@aol.com