Bridge may be needed in Pont Casse – PM

Onlooker near the huge opening in the road at Pond Casse
Onlookers near the huge opening in the road at Pond Casse. Photo from Facebook

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skeritt has said a bridge may have to be constructed in Pont Casse where a 40-foot deep opening due to heavy rains split the main road.

Two members of the Dominica National Football Team lost their lives on Friday when the vehicle they were traveling in, plunged into the chasm. Another was seriously injured and is now in hospital.

The prime minister visited the area on Friday and described the damage as ‘extensive.’

“Clearly in the Pont Casse area, from my own observation, it’s extensive … you going to require, I believe, possibly a bridge in that area considering the extent of the slippage,” he said.

He said that a preliminary assessment of the damage is being conducted by personnel of the Ministry of Public Works and in a couple of days the government will have information on the resources needed for repair works in those areas affected by the rains.

“In terms of costing, the technical staff led by the Chief Technical Officer of the Ministry of Public Works are visiting the areas and they will prepare a preliminary report of the resources that will be required to have those matters addressed,” he remarked.

The prime minister said he visited several affected areas including Dubique, which was affected by flooding. “There was a landslide that blocked the natural pathway of the water and it flooded  the homes of two individuals, one is an elderly lady who was rescued from her home,” he said. “And also a pregnant young lady whose entire living quarters was completely flooded.”

He indicated that the two have been evacuated and have been taken in by neighbours.

Skerrit said landslides have been reported in Belles and Petite Savanne but heavy machinery is being used to clear them up.

DNO has also received reports of landslides and flooding in Castle Bruce and Layou.

The heavy rains are being caused by a trough system which the Met Office say is affecting the island.

Copyright 2012 Dominica News Online, DURAVISION INC. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or distributed.

Disclaimer: The comments posted do not necessarily reflect the views of DominicaNewsOnline.com and its parent company or any individual staff member. All comments are posted subject to approval by DominicaNewsOnline.com. We never censor based on political or ideological points of view, but we do try to maintain a sensible balance between free speech and responsible moderating.

We will delete comments that:

  • contain any material which violates or infringes the rights of any person, are defamatory or harassing or are purely ad hominem attacks
  • a reasonable person would consider abusive or profane
  • contain material which violates or encourages others to violate any applicable law
  • promote prejudice or prejudicial hatred of any kind
  • refer to people arrested or charged with a crime as though they had been found guilty
  • contain links to "chain letters", pornographic or obscene movies or graphic images
  • are off-topic and/or excessively long

See our full comment/user policy/agreement.

161 Comments

  1. stehen
    May 20, 2013

    country side road are equally important spending millions on the west coast road only to give china man work a loan from the Chinese gorvenment is not the way forward

  2. Let's talk
    April 27, 2013

    To some of these commenters: Empty barrels make the most noise…

  3. francis
    April 22, 2013

    Mr. Skerrit just do your bese in jesus name

  4. kubulol
    April 22, 2013

    Knowing that a bridge is “pont” in french, and that “pont casse” means “broken bridge” , you have a name for it already.

    Let’s hope it would’nt break though !

  5. Sammy
    April 21, 2013

    Dominicans are the most hard headed and the most difficult to please. What da heck did they expect to hear from the Prime Minister. IF the man said that he would have been fixing the road himself with all his power, then I could understand the debate. BUt he said assessment by the professionals and this still is not good enough for Dominicans. Tell them stay home when rain falling is a problem, tell them go to hell is still a problem. I am not a Skerrit fan but oh ghees man. What do these Israelites want from the man.

  6. SEBO
    April 21, 2013

    the most sensible piece in all of that is from

    ENGINEERS INC.PRESS do read it

    and share it with your MP’s

  7. legit
    April 21, 2013

    That was just a land slippage or a landslide if you want to call it that.This is just the kind of Island we have.We have had slides before and we will continue to have slides doing heavy rains.We cannot afford 365 bridges over every water course.

    • DOMINICA
      April 22, 2013

      Are you CRAZY?

      This is a ravin in dry weather and a big river during heavy rain. There was a colvert as you can see and heard about it, it did not work and lives were lost in the process.

      The best for that area is a NEW BRIDGE

  8. Anthony P.Ismael
    April 21, 2013

    I’m sitting here wondering what all the fuss is about. The PM came on the scene and made a statement.
    “Government Engineers” will further evaluate the area and arrive at a feasible conclusion, including costing and what actually may or may not be needed in that area. Where’s the beef?

    • Watch Dog
      April 22, 2013

      The beef is: why he has to pretend he is an authority on all things? What he knows about road and bridge construction? Where did he get his training in this field of engineering? That is the beef my friend: everyone wants to be an expert in all things!

  9. Discombobulated
    April 21, 2013

    We like cutting short cuts too much in Dominica, and that seems to be causing more problems and money wastage. It may be best that we just do things right in the first place. However that’s just my personal opinion. Why put a bridge where the road has eroded? I think we need to look at alternatives. Maybe bypass that section altogether. Or some sort of treatment and drainage prior to bridge building if that is the only solution? The last thing we need is a bridge to collapse the next time it rains heavily. Anyway, I hope whatever remedy is implemented is assessed by expert engineers, prior to construction.

    • SEBO
      April 22, 2013

      papa look at the new CYMBERT malapropism at its bestest we……look kicks off lol!!!!

    • Anonymous
      April 22, 2013

      For real! I dont want to drive anywhere near that spot! Next thing the bridge collapses too in the future.

      Looking forward to an article with the assessment by the engineers as to the safest way forward.

    • Observer
      April 23, 2013

      Including you.

  10. I DIE NU
    April 21, 2013

    To all of you who is blaming Skerrit and the Government for the incident that took place at Pond Case area,…Would you all blame Obama and his Party for what happened in Boston?

    • Anonymous
      April 22, 2013

      Well while I agree that blaming Skerrit may be unfair at this juncture as we don’t have all information, what happened in Boston is due to crazy people and we have no control over crazy people.

      Engineering, planning, assessment, listening and acting upon years of warnings or similiar landslides, always focusing on priorities like the safety of a country’s citizens. All factors that are 100% within our control.

      See the difference?

  11. Watch Dog
    April 21, 2013

    ….So the way things work in Dominica, the qualified Government employees (Mr. Skerrit, I am afraid is not qualified in matters of road and bridge construction) will have to do their various analyses (geology, engineering, economic, project management) and be sure to come up with a bridge as the best solution among all the possible alternatives.

    You see how the country running back to front?

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      What type of watch dog are you are? Do not make me laugh sarcastically and think you are senseless and running back to front and vice versa.
      What do you mean that the country running back to front? If you reside in DA you should consider yourself fortunate and be appreciative.
      After such an accident and the manner in which the road is damaged, I am confident that the government will do what it possibly can to rectify this situation. Learn to be positive and less negative, if not at all.

  12. Watch Dog
    April 21, 2013

    Somebody close to the PM must ask him to stop that nonsense!

    He arrives at the site of the accident, cast his eyes, waves his hands over the huge gap in the road and starts talking about a bridge.

    So the way things work in

    • .
      April 21, 2013

      Worst than that has been done by this leader. The state of the country under his care in terms of the level of( poverty, unemployment, decline of economic activities etc) under his leadership is there for all to see

    • MAHAUT
      April 21, 2013

      What else would you expect, some sot of make shift drain so they can have the same problem on their hands

    • scrappy coco
      April 23, 2013

      stupid dog any uneducated fool like you would see the need of a bridge like rge chinese bridge by the market,and i believe you are one of those haterz that say the road from upper goodwill to bathestate cannot be built

  13. William Settlement
    April 21, 2013

    The DLP government stopped road maintenance for the past 13 years. Drains and Culverts are blocked. Where do you expect the water trapped by clay soil to go?…..Landslides, mudslides

    Skerrit can not run away from the basic responsibility of his government to ensure that the drains and culverts are clear so that the water from our mountainous terrain can flow with little or no obstruction.

    I hope that sad incident in Pond Casse will teach him and his government RESPONSIBILITY!!

    • IPO
      April 21, 2013

      Bring out the Baygon

  14. WHO VEX VEX
    April 21, 2013

    Because of poor engineering this accident happened in the 1st place.

    This is the same poor engineering that caused the road to cave in rite b4 you enter Picard, Then the Chinese stepped in and constructed a bridge we all were criticizing including me, now look how it turned up, We Dominicans would never dig that deep to lay a foundation and that is what was needed in pond-casse a deep foundation.

    So i say whether it’s Dominica or Chinese let the best engineer build the pond-casse bridge.

    • MAHAUT
      April 21, 2013

      I agree

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      Ask yourself, how old is this road? Was there a major problem on this road in previous years? When last did the road have to be repaired? These are questions you critics must ask yourselves prior to making such statements and blaming the current PM. Know your facts before passing judgments. :twisted: :twisted:

      • S Bannis
        April 23, 2013

        Everybody born before my time and my mother time know that a river passes through there. They had no proper engineers at the time when that road was being made so they just covered it up and let it be. No one ever went back to say perhaps we need to build a bridge to secure the road better. So get YOUR facts straight before talking about bashing the PM. The roads are old. Who knows what other place has a river flowing under it. A bridge was the safer bet in the first place. If there was a bridge then all this might have been avoided. Am not bashing the government at present but all governments before need to be bashed for this. It could have clearly been avoided in some way because no one knows what mother nature is going to do.

    • Sickened
      April 21, 2013

      I guess poor engineering cause the sink hole in the states on the same day, where 3 vehicles fell in!

      My gosh…you pp,sicken me

      • WHO VEX VEX
        April 21, 2013

        You talking pure bull
        who talking bout sink hole

        A sinkhole, also known as a sink, snake hole, swallow hole, swallet, or doline, is a natural depression or hole in the Earth’s surface caused by karst processes—for example, the chemical dissolution of carbonate rocks

        We talking bout a landslid.
        A landslide or landslip is a geological phenomenon which includes a wide range of ground movement, such as rockfalls, deep failure of slopes.
        e.g groundwater (porewater) pressure acting to destabilize the slope

        SO DONT BE STUPID

  15. Roger that
    April 21, 2013

    This is very scary, the other place that could just go at any time I would imagine is on the road between Canefield and Ponte Casse. The piece that has not been tarmacked for a very long time. The land is slipping there is it not!!

    • Anonymous
      April 21, 2013

      Yes and the reason is the fault.

  16. commando
    April 21, 2013

    the prime minister has nothing to be blamed for in such an incident,i am very familiar with this area and the rainfall level in this area is high,water has tremendous power and energy,there were administrations of the past who should have taken the initiative to construct the roads properly,and had this been done then probably this accident would be avoided,i’m not a supporter of the government,but i refuse to blame the prime minister and his government for this,let’s get real now man.

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      I endorse your comments.

  17. IluvmyPm
    April 21, 2013

    Nothing skerrit do working, night landing not working, roads splitting, crime rising, Eugenia did roads no splitting, uwp do dangerous road to delice no splitting.

  18. I man
    April 21, 2013

    People, the PM made a correct statement (we may or may not need a bridge), I am familiar with soils and structures part of my daily work a study must be done PLEASE read the comment by ENGINEERS INC.PRESS It could not have been said any better such an area requires testing before building any kind of structure the conclusion would be the cost of a bridge verses the alternative.

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      They do not utilize their common sense if they have any and are too quick to blame the current government and pronounce rash judgments on the PM which he does not deserve. As if they are experts when they know nothing at all.

  19. Mr. D in Dominica
    April 21, 2013

    Ms G in NY please come home to Dominica and then you will earn a voice as to what is going on down here, until then please comment on the political and social issues affecting your current place of residence. thank you.

    • Dcan in Ohio
      April 21, 2013

      I second that! and even saying She speaking for Diaspora!

  20. Pussinka
    April 21, 2013

    :?: Coulkd have an undetected earthquake could have happened during the heavy rains? Was it responsible for the wide gap in the road? Just wondering?

  21. Ms.G, in New York
    April 21, 2013

    SHUT UP YOU NEGATIVE D/CANS.Stop talking bad about DA.Come and live in NY if ur so displeased with our govt.Come spend 2 winters up here.Learn and know about life and stop blaming the MP for everything.We abroad are ashamed of it> Not only tired but ashamed.LEAVE THE GOVT. ALONE AND LIVE UR LIFE.mp cannot be blamed for heavy rains.ALL U NEGATIVE D/CANS STOP TALKINGGGGGGGGG.PLEASE SHUT UP YOUR PARROT MOUTHS AND LEAVE DA IF U SO UNHAPPY.I WILL MOVE BACK TO LIVE IN DA,YOU BAD MOUTHERS DEFECT TO RUSSIA, IRAN , OR AFGHANISTAN.SHUT UP!IF U CANT SAY SOMETHING POSITIVE ESPECIALLY ON LINE DONT SAY NOTHING AT ALL.JUST SHUT UP!shut up!SHUT UP!PLEASEEEEE WE ARE SICK OF ALL THE NEGATIVITY.THOSE OF US WHO LIVE ABROAD!

    • response
      April 21, 2013

      Why dont you shut up and come and live in dominica to see what we are going through

    • a man
      April 21, 2013

      wa de heck u kno about de situation in d.a. u is mayb one da comin ery wenever and stayin a few days vist couple place and den go back and say it sweet cuz u get jelly and orange life nice. y u doe come back and spend a six months straight on on average salary for u too feel cost. is allu da does come back vote and return and u still doe want to make a barrel to help out ur fam. doe talk and u dunno wa da people feelin. erybody brokes

      • judgement is for god
        April 21, 2013

        @a man
        do yourself and the readers a favor, please put on paper what u want to say before u expose yourself,and i mean proper ENGLISH

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      I reside in Canada and I echo your comments. I too am sick and fed-up of their negativity and unfounded ones. When people are so negative and inconsiderate, also due to their ingratitude, God sends a punishment on them. Sadly, it will also affect those who are positive and appreciative. They do not know how good they have it. They lack appreciation.
      We should exchange places. Send them to those big countries and we will return to DA permanently.

    • Dcan in Ohio
      April 21, 2013

      Miss G speak for yourself with your posturing. Which we Dominicans abroad you represent? I am not going to blame the PM for a tragic accident knowing our terrain and climatic conditions, however you need to speak for yourself and yourself alone. If I need a representative it certainly wouldnt be you. Quit wetting yourself over Skerrit, there are those in the US closer to him who don’t carry on like you. Get lost and go speak where you pay your taxes if at all you do, and let Dominicans who are facing their issues daily and paying VAT comment on their own issues.I find you out of order to want to come telling people to shut up on DNO!

  22. Ms.G, in New York
    April 21, 2013

    we are tired of all u BIG MOUTH D/cans who are so negative. The diaspora is sick of it leave the government alone and do good in DA
    yourself.Mr.Skerrit is not to b blamed for everything my good Lord.Stop talking negative.No other Caribbean island criticizes their govt like some of u D/cans.How can I tell my foreign friends in NY to visit DA with me,SHUT YOUR BAD MOUTHS PLEASE.We abroad are tired of it!I AM DOMINICAN TOO! JUST SHUT YOUR BAD MOUTH!SHUT UP!

    • Anonymous
      April 21, 2013

      @ Ms. G in New York, speak for your self you are certainly not representing the entire diaspora and by the way if things so sweet here why not pack up and fetch your butt here. Make haste girl and come anjoy the sweetness. (Silly)

      • Justice and Truth
        April 21, 2013

        We have opinions, even from afar. We utilize our fair and good judgment. There are times we disagree with some people on certain topics. However, this is one everybody should comprehend and not be critical about.
        You, too, are not representing all Dominican national residents. We have relatives and friends in DA. Would you believe it, during courses of conversations, not one has complained to me. If there is anything they would complain about and be concerned about, are increased crimes, the types of crimes committed in DA which never occurred in those years and the amount of murders. None complained about the government. I reiterate that you do not speak for and on behalf of all DA residents. This should set you thinking.

    • Dcan in Ohio
      April 21, 2013

      Which Diaspora, maybe you should find out the meaning of Diaspora you parrot before you start running your mouth and fingers. You about to get a free ticket to go Dominica and vote, so keep singing for your supper.

    • concerned
      April 22, 2013

      miss g,talk for yourself please.the standard of living in dominica has gone to a state we have never seen before ,so why dont you shut the hell up and think before you speak .my people lives are being ruinned by this government .is people like yourself who get given a plane ticket to come vote this so call next level government into office and then turn your back to return to new york.not thinking of the damage you are doing the the people who actually live on the island .so think about that before you say , that your are speaking for me .many thanks .london massive

  23. JUDGE DRED
    April 21, 2013

    people, there is a blame that should be placed on the government of the past for what i have seen. a three to four feet colvert was placed 40 feet below road level to direct the flow of water for seem like a dominant river…
    its that can of sub-standard work and cost saving maneauvering that caused the young men to loose their life……and when governments do that kind of nonsense they go on platform and boast how they build wall and road(which is what they were employed to do), but at what cost, more votes and disaster in the future.
    that is why dominica will remain the poorest in the west indies,, to many FOOLISH people that accept anything for nothing

    • Lu
      April 21, 2013

      Where ignorance is bliss it’s folly to be wise

    • IluvmyPm
      April 21, 2013

      Judge Dred u are correct when people speak the truth they are disliked but when they talk nonsense like the lady in new York they are praised that is the new Dominica thanks for speaking the truth

    • Strangely
      April 21, 2013

      A dominant or dormant river? Blame game is accomplishing nothing right now. A tragedy occurred and families are grieving. We need to be a more sensitive people.

      • JUDGE DRED
        April 25, 2013

        thanks, a typo. i did not listen to my teacher,she used to always go over your work, i am making her shame… lol

  24. St.Joe
    April 21, 2013

    It is sad to say , but unless Dominicans don’t wake up fast and smell the coffee , these short sighted people we have in Gov’t will continue to put our kids in these kind of dangerous situations.
    I know that the weather conditions are not fault of theirs, but if we prepare for such time we can better deal with it! Every where in Dominican from the Valley to Portsmouth, to Grandbay we have been hearing the local residents expressing their dissatisfaction about the continuous bad conditions of the roads in all these areas.
    And yet we are so quick to run to a political campaign to show support for these guys who only want to remain in power by any means.
    Protect yourself first my People.

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      Let common sense prevail. They must do less taking and more action. Why do they all not get together and prepare a signed document and present it to the proper authority? The problem with some people is that all they do is complain and talk and then they turn around and blame the government for everything. Where do solely complaining and talking among yourselves get people? There are voices in numbers. If you have done that and no action was taken, then you can blame the government.

  25. dede
    April 21, 2013

    Alas Papa, what is wrong with we Dominicans, or those posting these pcs of Crap on DNO? The P.M said”might”, and he is correct. might because he must rely on reports and advice from that ministry. Don’tyou think that his C.T.O and team, might have hinted that o him? So often do we see these things happening in the u.s and around the worl….I guess the next time I boast about how much water we have along the rout to Roseau for free I should ask myself where is all that water coming from and going.. just being funny.. but people this is serious. this is not a time to play “blame game” we are better equiped to do a better job, and if I know the team well, they will do just that. lets all hope, watch and pray for our Little land of many rivers and free roadside water. remember where there is water, there’s trouble waiting to hapen.

  26. Da
    April 21, 2013

    Lack of Planning will always cause knee jerk reactions from any officials.
    Because this tragedy occurred , its only now you are seeing the need for a modernized infrastructural network system in Da??
    It is so sad that we are loosing our youths in the way.

  27. Very concerned
    April 21, 2013

    A bridge! This is insane! Common sense should tell anyone, especially an educated person such as the PM that there is major problem beneath. This is a sinkhole. The ground beneath is obviously unstable. One can’t just build a bridge over it. That bridge will collapse (maybe with no warning) and there will be major catastrophe. Get the experts in there please.
    This could be catastrophic if one thinks the solution is as simple as just building a bridge.

    • touché
      April 21, 2013

      clearly u dont know what a bridge is…..smdh

      • Justice and Truth
        April 21, 2013

        …And how it will be built including the type of construction to enable it to remain stable and strong – concrete.

    • Anonymous
      April 21, 2013

      Does it look like a sinkhole to you or a landslide?

    • JUDGE DRED
      April 21, 2013

      i dont think you know what a sink hole is

    • DonK
      April 21, 2013

      The only sinkhole I see is in your brain.

    • scrappy coco
      April 23, 2013

      wat are youconcerned about getting uncleaned bullets from your mouth and not dominica,wat would you advice the authourities to do in that area

  28. MewMew
    April 21, 2013

    The name of that area, if correctly spelled “Pont Casse”, literally means broken bridge. Maybe that area has a history of roads being destroyed. It would interesting to find out the back story.

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      Considering this, during the debates and violence prior to the establishment of National Statehood, fire was set to the Roseau Registry which burnt and destroyed all records. You may have to ask the DA historian, Lennox Honeychurch. He may privy to this information. Who knows?

      • Justice and Truth
        April 21, 2013

        :oops: “have” privy…

  29. kevin
    April 21, 2013

    skerrit………..,you think?

    • Jayson
      April 21, 2013

      LOL! :lol:

  30. paper trail
    April 21, 2013

    That road jû§τ̲̣̣̥ fix eh ά̲̣̣̣̥ŋd that happen. Huh sorry to say this government don’t build new roads, the only patch them or resurface them hence why this happen now. But on de other hand water takes whatever that ɪ̣̝̇§ in it way when it ready , wether old or new.

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      Your keyboard has a serious problem. Needs repairing? :lol:
      “whether”.

    • anonymous
      April 21, 2013

      d road jus fix??? do u knw wher pond casse is??

      • S Bannis
        April 23, 2013

        and that is not even pond casse that is tarish pit

  31. The Sapper
    April 20, 2013

    The British Army, Royal Engineers and I believe the US Army Corps of Engineers, may have surplus Bailey Bridges for sale. They can be erected in a matter hours,and have lasted for over 50 years in some locations.

    • Anonymous
      April 21, 2013

      After research , I think a Bailey Bridge would be a very good solution to the problem . One can actually buy them second
      hand and they can be installed in a short period of time and can last a long time .

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      Hopefully it can stand erect under such weather conditions.

  32. This is wonderful.
    April 20, 2013

    This is a public forum. The prime minister is not an engineer. At the time he was speaking of possibilities to fix the Road. It seems that there is more needed but do not brow beat the man on this one. Everyone realizes now that the South East roads need a lot of testing because of the water underneath the roads. Why not work together huh?

  33. Justice and Truth
    April 20, 2013

    This road was badly damaged. It is an understatement. I had no idea that the road was split in two. Throughout the years, constant rain and also heavy traffic must have contributed to this. As I have previously stated the road is not strong enough for the daily and nightly heavy traffic. DA roads must be better, strongly built.
    I visualize the feelings of those guys and what they went through as they realized what was occurring and they descended into that precipice which caused the death of two of them and injury of the other.
    My heart goes out to their family and of course the one who is injured. He must be in a lot of pain. As time passes, may his pain be eased and his injuries heal. May he feel the presence of God and his consolation to also ease his pain and heal him.
    He must be saddened at his friends’ passing and will dearly miss them. It is no easy matter to bear. May he receive as much consolation as possible from all those who care.
    May the souls of the departed rest in peace. Amen!
    May God assist, console and strengthen their family to bear their loss.
    In Jesus Name, I pray.

  34. anonymous
    April 20, 2013

    weh weh weh dominicans…. stop playing politics n tlkn bout wa d man shud hv dne since weneva… he sed they assessing den let dem assess… dnt think a bridge is needed? do u ppl nt understnd d kinda of journey da hv to happen nw to get to d east coast???? hmph…. i 4 one am happy dat he at least sed sumfing so soon…. lets just wait n c before we strt bashing d man….

  35. CIVIL-ian
    April 20, 2013

    For a full island-wide hazard assessment the government could utilize a company to provide factual and geographic data of areas prone to flood, landslides, water paths and much more..TWO lives are too much, this can be avoided if we are proactive.

    TOGETHER WE CAN PRESERVE OUR BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY!!!

    • grieving
      April 21, 2013

      civil-ian. The PM is responsible for the landslide that cause the layou river saga too. Poor pm

  36. truth offends
    April 20, 2013

    During natural disaster I don’t want to play politics but at the same time my level of tolerance for nonsense is at zero%. The last time I checked the PM had no background in civil engineering and I find it strange that he is already telling people what he thinks is needed. Whatever the case may be, bridge or no bridge, it is going to be tuff for us because papa Chavez is gone and Maduro did not get a clear mandate from the Venezuelans.

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      He is not the one who will be building the bridge. He said “a bridge ‘may’ have to be built.” He did not confirm that it will be bridge. If it is decided that one will be built you can rest assured that it will not be without a certain degree of consultation from the experts and who knows, experts from overseas. Some of us are fully aware of that and comprehend it. Why not you and the other critics?
      Why do you not give the PM credit? Cease underestimating him and his credibility. You must have respect for the PM. You are not more intelligent than him. Give him his dues.

  37. April 20, 2013

    Make sure you guys build solid walls so that heavy rain will not able to wash away the bridge.

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      Any feasible advice for them which they may not be aware of that they could consider, adopt and implement?

  38. truth response
    April 20, 2013

    Dear PM,

    I am not an engineer. i just a concern citizen. The tourist season just ended with the last cruise ship on the 22nd. If we dont address the situation now wat would happen to the next cruise ship season. We cannot market emerald pool and othere tourist site until we address this situation. The drive through belles to get to the emerald pool is too long. So we are presently constructing 12 bridges in belles to marigot why not postpone those bridges temporary and move to pondcasse to build that bridge before the next cruise ship season open

    • Justice and Truth
      April 21, 2013

      First things first prior to the season of 2014.

  39. Anonymous
    April 20, 2013

    ALL HE HAS TO DO IS COMMAND THOSE CHINESE TO BUILD ANOTHER ONE, NO PROBLEM! They can put their trade mark (the dragon) :wink:

  40. watcha
    April 20, 2013

    build a bridge and still make another alternative root

  41. watcha
    April 20, 2013

    chhhhhhhhhh

  42. TRUE DOMINICAN
    April 20, 2013

    Dear Mr. Prime Minister…. I do not want to be your adviser but bearing in mind that we all know that what you want done you get done, as a True Dominican I would want to suggest that based on the testimony of Mrs Felita Paul(?) a taxi operator and others who were on the scene and gave assistance to Joslyn Prince… and we all KNOW THAT HE SAVE MANY LIVES…..because of his courage and bravery on behalf of the people of Grand Fond and the South East and DOMINICA in general, AT LEAST:::: GIVE JOSLYN PRINCE A MERITORIUS SERVICE AWARD (MSA) AT THIS YEARS INDEPENDENCE RALLY ,,,,,, This I believe will go a long way in bring a sense of pride to the youth of Dominica….. particularly the sports men and women and more specifically the footballers. Dont think he is too young and dont say its not traditional….. If I know you well, I am sure you will see many other benefits I cannot yet see.
    Sorry for using this medium but that is what I have.
    If somebody has to make a recommendation…. I am sure the Dominica Football Association wont have any difficulty in submitting one.

    • retired civil servan
      April 20, 2013

      I agree a hundred percent. This young man is a hero, Really think his guardian angel was riding with him. We should really honour him he saved many lives. Wish him a speedy recovery

    • Justice and Truth
      April 20, 2013

      Granted, the young man was brave and strong and should be recognized for his feat. Do you not have other means of communicating with the PM as writing to him or to his deputy? I am certain your writing will be well taken.
      On another note, inform the PM of the excellent feat performed by this young man but do not advise him, saying “I think this is what you should do…” Never do that. Keep in mind he is the PM. If, however, you feel to do so, word your writing in a less domineering manner. If you decide to write, utilize diplomacy and respect.

      • ..........
        April 21, 2013

        Justice & Truth so because he is the PM he as all the answers? He is a super-human and no lowly creatures should dare to advise him? It’s sick thinking individuals like you that make this man believe he is a God. What was domineering,lacking respect, or diplomacy in the persons’ posting? SMFH! Stay Canada and just run your fingers, preach high holiness when it suits you and then tell others what to say at other times.

    • Anonymous
      April 21, 2013

      good stuff

    • Castle Bruce
      April 21, 2013

      Can we first pray for him to get out of this critical condition? Can we at least for him to be provided the best medical care and provision to be flown overseas. Your request is a bit premature

  43. Roseau queen
    April 20, 2013

    a bridge must b constructd, i wont take the chance of repairing that road again. it seems there is alot of water coming from the ravine which is undermining the road. so it is better to be safe than sorry. just build a bride.

  44. T mama
    April 20, 2013

    My same thoughts……too much water beneath…bridge would be a good idea..

  45. me
    April 20, 2013

    I believe the PM needs to reconstruct that whole road because my parents and an old friend was saying that during the construction of this road woods were placed under the road to support it.so now wat if those woods rot now for so long. Engineers needs to look @ that also

    • Justice and Truth
      April 20, 2013

      Wood was not a smart idea. Of course, they rot in time. Concrete would have been better. They should have known better than that.

  46. Big Bannan
    April 20, 2013

    DNO, wish we had better pictures boy.

  47. Nature Spice
    April 20, 2013

    It is not the first time the PM has made those pronouncements after heavy rains or damage to road infrastructure in Dominica. Can you remember the bridge in Layou, when the PM said it would take 18 million dollars for a new bridge? All that was done was to repair the current bridge and it’s operational. I am sure it did not cost 18 million dollars for the repair that was done.

    This PM is sensational and full of hype, all he has to do is let the professionals do their job and advise him. When he receives the advice, his job is to accept the advice and provide the funds to implement their recommendations.

    PM that is not the way these things of this nature is done, there is a much better approach. Instead of making uninformed and uneducated statements on subject matters that you are not an authority on, let the professional do their job with no influence.

    When this is done, we will start to see better progress in Dominica.

    • Justice and Truth
      April 20, 2013

      Have respect for the PM. You sound as though you are an expert and you know better than him. He has common sense and made a sensible statement. Why jump the gun and think he does not mean what he said? The damage to the road is such that it would be foolish and a waste of money to repair it rather than construct a road. No doubt he will consult the engineers and whoever else has the expertise in road construction.

    • Me again
      April 20, 2013

      You are so right. Why should the PM do the work of the technical personnel responsible. Let those trained make such pronouncements after proper assessment. But then, promises get votes!!!

  48. chips
    April 20, 2013

    Correct me if i’m wrong, isn’t it Ministry of communications & works and not that of Public works.

    • hemie5
      April 20, 2013

      The ministry of Public Works Energy and Ports

    • Justice and Truth
      April 20, 2013

      Excellent question. Know that many will learn from this, i.e., if they are willing to learn and open to it.
      I am certain that many of us did not give it a thought. It certainly opened my eyes and mind and set me thinking. Good exercise for the brains. :lol:
      This is what Communication means: “The exchange of communication between people, e.g., by means of speaking, writing or using a common system. Exchange of information; the communicating of information; a means of access or communication, e.g., a connecting door.”
      The above led me to believe that The Ministry of Communications and Works, as an Oversee – authority designates Public Works to carry out the repairs, etc. when needed. The Public Works Department is responsible for relevant repairs and construction. I would think that Public Works reports to The Ministry of Communications and Works.
      One communicates to the other. The other carries out the works to be performed which is communicated to it.
      This is my simple interpretation from afar. :) Correct me too if I err. We are not beyond making errors and misinterpretation.
      There must be a shorter version and explanation which the experts could clarify.

    • Anonymous
      April 21, 2013

      It is Public Works, Energy and Ports

  49. New Yorker
    April 20, 2013

    Thought that was part of the road that was under construcrion by the chinesse

    • SIMPLETON
      April 20, 2013

      No New Yorker…… The misled you and even me to. When most Dominicans hear the Pond Case road they(we) think of the road to the Air Port. For easier description the reporters, the callers, and all those who gave and sent the news, they should have said the accident happened on the road to the TARRISH PIT….. that would have caused less confusion in understanding the location

    • IPO
      April 20, 2013

      Stay in New York, actually the Chinese are constructing the new Tappan Zee Bridge….where you are living

    • D/can
      April 21, 2013

      That has nothing to do with anything. This road has given way before.

  50. %
    April 20, 2013

    We in this country are not a proactive set of people. We always react after the fact. Our government leaders are the worst in the Caribbean. An incompetent and lazy team…The worst we have had since the discovery of this island.A really backward country indeed.!

    • Justice and Truth
      April 20, 2013

      This is downgrading your government and other leaders. It is not nice of you and is unfair to them. When last have you done something for Dominica and for others? When last have you suggested something feasible that they could consider and would be worthwhile to implement?

    • Richards
      April 21, 2013

      Very well said %. You can’t be more accurate than this.

    • Nel
      April 21, 2013

      You are clearly making an uninformed statement. I admonish people on DNO that before you make such statements like comparing Dominica to the rest of the Caribbean, that you do some extensive research before you make such ignorant statements on DNO. I have lived in several other Caribbean islands and there are people like you who say the same thing about their leaders.

      • Justice and Truth
        April 21, 2013

        When all they do is talk and nothhing else.

  51. April 20, 2013

    sooooooooooo saddddddd :cry:
    :cry:

  52. Anonymous
    April 20, 2013

    Not “may” mr. PM, “will”.

  53. April 20, 2013

    WELLS It will be an insult to name a bridge in that vicinity in the memory of those fallen in this catastrophic event. We have to be sensitive to the feelings of the families of these individuals. Its a place they would not even want to venture and if they do it might be for closure purposes. Maybe some memorial at the P J football house can be considered.

    Now let me come to the substance of my presentation. It does appear that this area is in dire need of the proper modern updated soil diagnostic investigations by the trained authorities. There is reason to believe that this and other areas are unstable and the requisite soil audit needs to be conducted. We traverse many paths everyday and there is the underlying dangers. This incident must serve as an eye opener to any sensible government. I do believe that its an unsafe suggestion to think of constructing a bridge over a 75 ft. plunge below. A soil technician and other experts at home and or overseas must be used to do the analysis. Is it a bridge in the sky hence its structure will not have any contact with a probable unsafe foundation ? Are we aware of how much damage and undermining has taken place to weaken that particular area? Will the scientific testings be undertaken ? We may well have to consider all the other none-bridge options ? Could you imagine of the very real probability of a new bridge collapsing under the structural instability of the soil below and the attendant fatal consequences ? Vehicles of every description and tonnage traverse such a route and this factor exacerbates the problem as per building a bridge in this area. Are we madddddd? I think not !

    I am of the fervent view that the most viable option is to consider a Western Route to this Road. Some land will have to be acquired in this regard and the proper thorough analysis and test be made. It will be safer and more cost effective to consider this approach but security is the essential factor since we cannot equate life nor replace life with money but monies properly spent can save lives.
    So this is a suggestion that needs serious consideration and it needs to be worked on as soon as possible.
    I DONT THINK WE NEED A BRIDGE especially in the absence of a proper soil assessment.

    Mr PRIME MINISTER >>>>>> I also belive and do recommend that a thorough Hydro and Soil Geological Survey be conducted in this area and elsewhere in Dominica especially in such places where streams/rivers and other land based water sources are located nearing roads. There may be pending dangers lying far below awaiting to reap havoc and endanger our lives.

    Use this incident as a means of reviewing our policy on road safety; this is a new dimension to it.

    • Aye Dominique
      April 20, 2013

      Wow, very indepth and thorough. This was the first thought that came to mind, why would the PM make such assumptions or suggestions in the absence of technical advise. People need to know when to step back and allow others to take the lead on certain matters. What you are saying make alot of sense, if the land is unstable, not even a bridge is going to stop erosion from taking place. Remember what happened in Florida a few weeks ago? The foundation and everything else disappeared.

      Anyway, I cannot help but continue to think of the families. Alas alas alas. But as a Christian community we have hope and we know that death is NOT final. If Christ rose again, we have hope that our loved ones will rise again. We must be comforted by 1 Corinthians 15:55…..”O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory”

      For today we feel the sting of death and the grave may appear to have won, but we must take comfort in The Word!

    • A Sisserou
      April 20, 2013

      You sound like a trained Dominican in the Diaspora…. Dont you think you could introduce yourself to the relevant ministry and formally give them some initial free advise????

    • hemie5
      April 20, 2013

      well done sir … i suggest you go up for prime minister and all now begin sourcing funds because you will have a enormous amount of work on your hands… it seems you can sense where there is eminent danger and i think i would feel much safer knowing that you are at the forefront leading that battle against nature

      • wait
        April 22, 2013

        And then you will start saying you have a prime minister who is only good for carrying out engineering projects. Before someone comes up with a couple good ideas we suggest they run for some post. That is how we end up with so many non-workers leading us.

      • Anonymous
        April 22, 2013

        That is why the PM said MAY as opposed to SHALL.
        While you enjoy your bliss, I will wallow in my folly.

    • Just for consumption
      April 20, 2013

      ENGINEERS INc. PRESS you missed out one point in your blog and that is, ” Mr. PM you must raise taxes to get all the funds necessary to conduct a soil survey of all our roads”

      Oh, how easy we forget, we constantly through this medium and the talk shows say how poor this country is, yet when it suits us, we turn around and make unreasonable demands on the same poor country to use its meager resources unwisely.

      Will you support a increase to meet your demand?

      • southeast
        April 21, 2013

        ENGINEEERS INC.PRESS never talked about testing all our roads. What was said is soil testing the roads where water streams exist.

        So far Engineers Inc. Press made the most sense.

      • Let's talk
        April 27, 2013

        TO Just for consumption…

        So do you have a better idea or are more people to die before we take become more proactive?

    • Justice and Truth
      April 20, 2013

      Who on this Website stated that if a bridge was constructed, it would be named in the memory of those who died in that accident? Unless I have not yet read all the comments. I would not consider it much more to even mention it.
      Due to this horrific accident, if a bridge is built in that area, it could be named Pond Casse bridge or given some other name and leave it at that.

    • Anonymous
      April 21, 2013

      Oh dear another armchair engineer.

      • Enlightened
        April 21, 2013

        AH stay anonymous
        your such a known clown

    • Anonymous
      April 21, 2013

      This is just a typical case of a Washout of the downhill slope as a result of the rapid flow of huge volumes of water down a steep embankment. There may have been a culvert crossing there which was inadequate to handle that volume of water. A combination of Gabion Basket and a properly sized Box Culvert is enough to remedy the problem.

    • AJ
      April 22, 2013

      I’m not sure if you saw the pictures of the inside of this ditch/valley/ravine?
      There is a hugh pipe running under the road and the road was washed away up the the depth of the pipe.
      I have been asking if this pipe was maybe leaking but no answers from anyone.
      Let’s see if they ever bring this up in dicsussion.

    • Realist
      April 22, 2013

      u don’t sound like a real engineer to me. Have u visited the site? By world standards this area is not an engineering challenge at all. In the first place it is not 75feet deep its more like 60feet.

      That aside, the more significant thing, is to get a solid foundation erected, and then build upwards, It can even be done using the steel frame approach.

      The initial structure was under constructed. The carrying capacity of the culverts did not provide for such swells or minor blockages. Thus now when it is redone in the right way, it will be okay.

      They have to face the challenge, its not every time you can run away and go build somewhere else. Dominica’s limited territorial flexibility does not always allow that option.

  54. stupes
    April 20, 2013

    A job for public works coperation

  55. Interesting
    April 20, 2013

    But isn’t that the same Pond Case road that kept sinking in some parts of the road…why wasn’t somethign done before…why is the govt. now taking action…why didn’t the engineers alert the govt. of the possibility of this occurring like it can occur in Springfield where the road is also sinking in…why doesn’t the govt spend the m,oney to reinforce the roads as opposed to re-laying tar over them every year…no matter how much u overlay if there is no foundation it will still sink! Politicians spending money on so many unnecessary things like the biggest SUV etc and not on infrastructure which is a necessary part of country development…I can never vote in DA again…all these politicans are the same! Self first before country!

    • MEME
      April 20, 2013

      You see….. you mixed up just like the New Yorker. They have repaired or have almost finished repairing this part of the road. GADAKAN ET fILS is contracted to do that road… that is Pond Cast to Marigot. You have the roads mixed up. You must visit before the election comes(lol).

    • DonK
      April 20, 2013

      2 completely different areas my friend.

    • Justice and Truth
      April 20, 2013

      It takes a bad accident for something to be done. Do not blame your government. This is a worldwide situation. They cannot foresee or think that such an accident would occur and when it will occur. Consider too, there are departments which are responsible for road repairs and constructions. They have supervisors who should oversee the condition of the roads and advise the PM about it, if those roads should be repaired or re-built. It also cost money to do so. If it is a simple road repair it may not be done immediately. Furthermore, the government cannot see beyond. They did not visualize that there would be such a terrible and sad occurrence in that area. They had no idea that the road was badly damaged. It was also not possible to send a crew to investigate the condition of the road. They cannot possibly do so during a rainfall especially for those roads that are out of town. It is just too sad what happened to the two young men and the other is injured.
      Pertaining to roads and filling them with tar etc., the same applies elsewhere in the world. The rain falls; then the hot sun and vice versa. In cold countries, we have added snow fall which erodes the roads and also cause potholes which have to be repaired. Just an example.
      Some people’s minds are always working overtime. Cease your criticism of the government. If you have suggestions, direct them to the proper authorities.

  56. Anonymous
    April 20, 2013

    ok dat nice

  57. SMH
    April 20, 2013

    Skeritt said “I believe, possibly a bridge in that area,” Possible a bridge, Skeritt Really? You should have said a bridge will be built. If you do not build a bridge how are people going to get to and from that area….are they going to jump or swim across?????

    • April 20, 2013

      Take your time money can build the brigde not talks if i said i want to build a house yes talk is cheap but money have to say yes don’t you think so so give the PM time to do things right or wait when you become a PM

    • Justice and Truth
      April 20, 2013

      Give him a break! Allow him to decide what should be done. :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:
      Discussions must ensue prior to making a decision. We hope the bridge will be built. Pray for this to happen.

  58. marcia bridgeman
    April 20, 2013

    So sorry to hear of such a horrific accidentmy sympathies goes out to the families i was in Dominica about 5-6 years ago when there was bad weather and a small Hurrican and the Roads to Melville hall airport were really bad but thankfully my family and I got to the airport safely but it was a scarry journey to say the least alot of the roads were cracked and washed away,Iam sure the priminister with his government will address this matter ASAP We would not like to see any more fatalities. God bless Dominica

    • Justice and Truth
      April 20, 2013

      Marcia, you could also write the PM and/or his deputy about it.

  59. Curious
    April 20, 2013

    The south East road needs to take into consideration. The roads are weak. Due to poor drainage heavy rain will continue to damage the roads. Too much patching of roads. roads need to be resurfaced.

    • Justice and Truth
      April 20, 2013

      Today, there are more vehicles on the road as never before. Probably the roads are not constructed for this type of traffic and vehicles.
      You have forgotten heavy traffic. These days Dominica has some heavy vehicles with huge tires which may be too heavy for those types of roads. The roads will have to be better constructed to be strong enough to withstand those types of heavy vehicles as also SUV’s and to also withstand rain and heat.

  60. April 20, 2013

    the way this reads He the PM said that a preliminary assessment of the damage is being conducted by personnel of the Ministry of Public Works and in a couple of days the government will have information on the resources needed for repair works in those areas affected by the rains”. As though the people of DA will have to provide the funds”.My point is build-fix this damage. Must another life(s) be taken,,,,Fix D Road PM…

    • wells
      April 20, 2013

      @bulldozer there must be an assessment of the bridge to determine the cost .the pm never said that the bridge won’t be built he is just simply sayin that the personel will be looking at the extent of damage . Do you expect the authorities to leave the danger xpose to travellers on this road without putting some signage to alert travellers our dominican ppl are more smart than this stop trying to make the world think that we are stupid and by the way that section of road is closed. Have e wonderfull day sir

    • SMH
      April 20, 2013

      You must be a JACK***! Learn to read and understand before you post BS. It is only common sense to have a proper assessment done before they can even think of doing any repair work. You want them to just fix the road without doing any assessment and then it is people like you that will blame the pm when the work is not done properly….. SMH

    • me
      April 20, 2013

      U talk like a fool

    • IPO
      April 20, 2013

      THat the words of Lennox

    • Justice and Truth
      April 20, 2013

      He is correct! He needs time to consult all concerned, his Finance Minister and Public Works. You deserve all those thumbs down. It is a constant criticism of whatever the PM says. Cease this and understand the situation. Bulldoze your fingers, mind, brains and mouth. :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

  61. Govt-Sucks
    April 20, 2013

    Skerrit turn weatherman :lol: :lol: :lol:

  62. wells
    April 20, 2013

    Wow ,
    .such sad news. I think that the bridge should be named after the two men who got killed, in remenbrance of them.
    It really breaks my heart. But God knows tge reason for everything. Relatives be strong , and I am praying for god to strengthen your hearts during this ordeal. And to the others that got affected by this disaster, my heart is with you. Peace and love

    • Aye Dominique
      April 20, 2013

      Amen, well said. I also pray that God comforts the hearts of the families and for full and speedy recovery for the other young man injured.

      Love and more love to the families.

    • Jayson
      April 20, 2013

      It would be better to find out from the family if they even want this bridge to be named after their lost one’s.

      Some families would prefer not to be reminded of this tragic incident and would like to remember their lost one’s as they were in life and not at their untimely death.

      • Justice and Truth
        April 21, 2013

        I would not recommend a bridge being built in their memory. It would be a constant sad reminder for the families who lost their loved ones in this tragic accident including their comrade who was injured. I also do not think Dominicans on a whole would be pleased and will endorse it.
        I am also certain that all those who are aware of it will never forget as they pass by. If a bridge is built, it would be a constant reminder of why it was built in the first place. This is reminder enough for everyone.

Post a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

:) :-D :wink: :( 8-O :lol: :-| :cry: 8) :-? :-P :-x :?: :oops: :twisted: :mrgreen: more »

 characters available