The collapse of the Stabroek Market Wharf earlier today resulted in five persons being injured and requiring medical attention.
The Stabroek Market Wharf has been in a dilapidated state for years. The incident which occurred around 10 am today caused the deployment of the Emergency Medical Services, the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Fire Service to locate the injured as part of a search and rescue operation.
In addition to vending, it was discovered that several persons were also living there.
President Ali, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, Minister of Communities, Sonia Parag, Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn and Mayor of Georgetown, Alfred Mentor were present on the scene to access the situation.
Although the facility falls under the purview of the Mayor and City Council, the Government and the Mayor and City Council will be working together to devise an action plan for the way forward.
A comprehensive action plan that outlines the steps to be taken in charting a way forward is expected to be issued today.
Although the facility was “condemned for occupation” it was still being used. The incident is an example of the need for monitoring and enforcement by City Hall to be significantly increased across the country.