Prime Minister Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit met with residents of Antrizzle, Atkinson, the Kalinago Territory and Castle Bruce on Thursday April 30 , following the passage of a trough system on Sunday, April 26, which resulted in widespread flooding and landslides.
The meetings were held to hear directly from affected residents and outline the Government’s response, including immediate relief efforts and the next steps for recovery and rebuilding.
COORDINATION AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Efforts on the ground in Antrizzle, Atkinson and the Kalinago Territory are being led by the Ministry with responsibility for Kalinago Affairs, which is coordinating the delivery of assistance to residents. Public officers have been redeployed to strengthen the response, while a dedicated hotline has been established to allow individuals to register their needs and receive timely support. Oversight of the national response remains with the Office of the Prime Minister under the leadership of Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit.
WATER RESTORATION
Progress is being made in restoring water supply. DOWASCO has already returned service to most areas, although some communities continue to experience low pressure. Crews are actively clearing intakes, removing silt and reopening valves, with full restoration expected by the end of the week.
ROADS, ACCESS AND CLEAN-UP
The Ministry of Public Works has deployed heavy equipment to clear landslides, reopen roads and clean drains. Access has been restored throughout the affected area, including to some farming areas that were cut off. Clearing, including the removal of fallen trees and debris, is expected to be completed by the end of next week. Residents are also being engaged to support clean-up efforts within their communities.
SUPPORT FOR FARMERS
Government is rolling out support to help farmers recover from the damage to their farms. This includes the distribution of short-term crops and vegetables for quick replanting, along with fertilizer and other input packages. Assistance is also being provided to address livestock losses, including animal feed and medication. Restoring access to farms remains a priority to allow production to resume.
SOCIAL SUPPORT AND RELIEF
Rapid assessments in Atkinson and Antrizzle confirmed that 22 households, comprising 64 individuals, have been affected. Food care packages have been distributed, in collaboration with the Dominica Export Import Agency (DEXIA), the Dominica Red Cross Society and other partners. Psychosocial support is also being provided to help residents cope with the impact.
HOUSING AND REBUILDING
Housing assessments have identified families in urgent need, including those who have lost their homes. Temporary accommodation is being arranged, while the Lands and Surveys Division has been engaged to identify suitable locations for reconstruction. Government will also engage geologists to conduct assessments that will guide rebuilding efforts and support safer, more resilient housing.
INTERVENTIONS IN CASTLE BRUCE
Access across the Calixte bridge in Castle Bruce has been restored, and clearing of landslides is ongoing. Water restoration is expected to be completed this week.
Landslides have resulted in the loss of crops, including tree crops and root crops, as well as livestock. Farmers in the area will receive targeted support to help them recover, including inputs packages and small equipment.
