How to combat erosion in Dangriga?

For the past few months much attention has been paid to the coastline of Dangriga Town, where erosion has become a serious concern. Today Mayor Gilbert Swaso told us that after analysis and consultation, the Council has come up with a practical plan which is being finalized and which will be put in place very soon.

Gilbert Swaso, Mayor, Dangriga Town

Gilbert Swaso

“The Council currently have drafted a proposal which we will begin to implement very shortly. But if you notice on the beach I believe it is indicative of what we had said that the erosion problem is also syndical because the edges would suggest that the beach is somewhat coming back very slowly on its own. So what we intend to do as part of the plan that I’ve just indicated is that we intend to in the first instance start to put some growing or fingers that will go out. And then we also intend to put some break waters to sort of reduce the energy of the waves. Then that we believe will enable the beach to reduce the energy of the wave coming on to the wave; then it will also enable the beach to grow back slowly on its own. Financing is a problem, however, we are of the view and we’ve also approached different organizations—even if you notice; HelpAge, Social Security among others are here—they have pledged that they are willing to support the plan. But once we’ve completed that plan, we have to demonstrate to them what the level of finance it will require to implement that plan and then we’ll ask their support with a view then to mitigate that the erosion problem. But certainly certain several organizations and individuals have pledged support. And once we’ve finalized that plan, we will implement it and we will be getting support.”

Swaso told News Five that he has consulted with an expert here in Belize and also the Petters Institute on the matter of the erosion.