Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am informed by the Land Drainage Authority that the region of Beau Bois was very severely impacted following several past flooding events. The primary cause of flooding in the area has been attributed to construction activities carried out along natural drainage paths without adequate consideration for storm water evacuation. Consequently, surface run-off originating from the upstream sugarcane fields flows towards the residential areas adversely affecting the region. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am further informed that a preliminary topographical survey of the region has been conducted by the LDA and the following proposed mitigation measures have been earmarked – 1. Cut-off drains upstream of the residential area, the construction of a cut-off swale drain is being proposed upstream of the residential area to prevent storm water from channelling into the residential area. The collected run-off will then be directed to a safe discharge point at the Rivulet Cresson, located some 100 metres from the B49 Road. 2. Ripailles – La Nicolière Road B49, upgrading of the existing road side drains to ensure adequate hydraulic capacity and fitted with metal grating where necessary for proper ingress of surface run-off. Upgrading of the culvert crossing the Ripailles – La Nicolière Road B49, next to Beau Bois Football Ground. Reprofiling the road surface to direct maximum surface run-off to propose upgrading of road side drains and cross drains. Clean existing drain along the Ripailles – La Nicolière Road B49, where warranted to ensure proper functioning. 3. Lateral roads, Seeburuth Lane, Mungra Lane and Chady Lane. Construction of road side drains along the lateral roads with full metal grating modules and required cross drains based on site conditions, directing storm water to a safe and proper discharge point. Reprofile the road surface to direct maximum surface run- off to the newly proposed side drains and cross drains. 4. Immediate measures undertaken by RDA, regular cleaning of existing drains along B49. Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, I am further informed that the project is still at the inception stage at the level of the Land Drainage Authority and once approved by its board, the project will be implemented by the designated agency, that is, either the NDU, the RDA or the DICL.

Yes!

Will the hon. Minister consider to earmark fund in the next coming budget for this project?

Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, as I said, we are at the inception stage, obviously, once the design and everything will be ready, we will go for financial clearance.

The hon. Third Member for Montagne Blanche and Grand River South East! NATIONAL LAND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY – BUS ROUTE 16D – DELAYS – REASONS & MEASURES