After flooding, New Haven residents now fear crocodiles

In addition to the fear of catching diseases from the knee-length, sewage-filled waters that flood their homes and roadways, the residents of New Haven said their lives are now being threatened by crocodiles and snakes.

"The crocodiles dem come out in full force and now there is snakes too. At least three dogs dem eat already. Mi all a bathe the other day and mi hear summen lick up on the zinc and when mi look over is a crocodile dat mi see a go back in the water. So if something nuh do about this situation, we a go inna bigger problem down here," one resident said.

She was among a group of persons who blocked a section of Washington Boulevard in protest, stating that for years, they have been victims of flooding, but the area was at its worst on Sunday as heavy rains associated with tropical storm Eta lashed the island.

According to Nicholas Hernie, the flooding will continue if the drainage systems are not properly fixed.

"The channels need to be cleaned and over the other side of Mandela Highway is a major problem. Tree grow in the Duhaney River so right now we need some type of machinery to dig it out because the water isn't running as it is supposed to run. Mosquito a breed up and a kill us off around here. The water is stagnant and is starting to stink now. Sewer rwwun in the water as well so it's a major health concern," he said.

Stephen Shaw, manager of communication and customer service at the National Works Agency, said currently, he is unaware of any plans to desilt the Duhaney River.

"What I do know is that it is an area that has been in discussion at a very senior level of government. But, as of now, I don't know if we have been put in a position where funding is concerned for it to be done," he said. "Historically, there is a serious solid waste issue in the area because the people dump their garbage in the Duhaney River. This is not something that I have personally seen having gone in there on site visit. So they too are contributing to whatever is taking place there."