Destruction of forests a growing problem

THE EDITOR: “TT’s deforestation at record levels,” screamed the headline in a daily newspaper, with the article going on to highlight the illegal clearing of tens of acres of forested land in Rio Claro and Matura.

However, the problem is way more widespread than that as every once forested area in Trinidad is now virtually under attack by miscreants bent on wholesale destruction and occupation.

In this regard, take a gaze at the hillsides in Diego Martin, Maraval, Moka or any other valley in Trinidad and you will see once forested areas burnt, cleared and occupied by rampant land thieves.

I have lived in the Moka valley for six years and at least 200 acres of nearby forest have been destroyed during that time in full view of everyone, including those in authority who have the power to do something about the situation, but never take any action.

If you take a drive along the Lady Young Road or the North Coast Road you will see many newly emerged dwellings right on the roadside, as if daring the Land Settlement Agency to do something about it. But alas, the only government agencies that take action are WASA and T&TEC, often providing water and power connections to these land thieves, who then, over time, demand squatter rights.

Surely, our political leaders must realise that their utter failure to protect the environment and the rule of law in this most critical area can only lead to the ever increasing chaos and confusion that have sadly become a hallmark of life in TT.

GREGORY WIGHT

Maraval