[UPDATED] Public banned from Los Iros land slippage site, farmers allowed

JUST over a week after the sudden land slippage in Los Iros, which damaged at least 62 acres of land, the Siparia Borough Corporation has banned the public from venturing into the affected area. Farmers, however, are allowed to continue salvaging their crops.

In a press release on July 7, the corporation said it was "advising" the public about the "recent and extensive landslide" at Royal Engineer Road. It said the conditions there are hazardous owing to soil instability and the continued risk of ground movement.

"Residents, visitors and all members of the public are strongly urged to avoid the affected area until further notice. Entry into the landslide zone is strictly prohibited for your safety.

"We urge everyone to remain vigilant and comply with all official advisories issued by the relevant authorities. Your safety is our highest priority."

On July 6, Newsday reported that farmers had been visiting the area to salvage their crops since the June 27 incident. They said at least $300,000 worth of crops were lost and equipment, damaged.

Geoscientists have also been visiting to assess the area and provide a comprehensive report based on science and data.

The corporation's press release did not say farmers had permission to visit. However, on July 8, some farmers told Newsday they "had been hearing" they could go ahead, and there was some confusion.

Newsday contacted the corporation for clarity and a senior representative said they would first need to seek clarity themselves before further advising.

The corporation later issued an updated press release saying farmers are free to go to the area.

"All farmers and residents of the affected area are advised to proceed with the highest level of caution in the vicinity of the affected area," the new notice read.

It also said "visitors" are the ones banned.

Additionally, in a phone interview with Newsday on July 8, Siparia Mayor Doodnath Mayrhoo said, "We are working on creating an alternative route on the other side (of the affected area) and will install a Bailey bridge. So until then, no one should go to the affected area."

Asked what measures will be put in place to ensure compliance, he said, "We will have regular patrols by police the road will be closed off."

Farmer Neisha Mathura told Newsday, "For visitors and (people who just want to see the damage), I strongly agree that staying away is best. However...farmers...are down and out, cashless, some still have things to retrieve from their land, farmhouses and there are still things left to secure.

Nobby Mathura agreed, adding that the area has become like a "tourist destination" within the last week.

"Plenty people coming just to look at it and take pictures."

This story was originally published with the headline Public banned from visiting Los Iros land slippage site and has been updated to include additional details. See original post below.

JUST over a week after the sudden land slippage in Los Iros, which damaged at least 62 acres of land, the Siparia Borough Corporation has banned members of the public from venturing into the affected area.

In a press release on July 7, the corporation said it was "advising" the public about the "recent and extensive landslide" at Royal Engineer Road. It said the conditions there are hazardous owing to soil instability and the continued risk of ground movement.

"Residents, visitors and all members of the public are strongly urged to avoid the affected area until further notice. Entry into the landslide zone is strictly prohibited for your safety.

"We urge everyone to remain vigilant and comply with all official advisories issued by the relevant authorities. Your safety is our highest priority."

On July 6, Newsday reported that farmers had been visiting the area to salvage their crops since the June 27 incident. They said at least $300,000 worth of crops were lost and equipment, damaged.

Geoscientists have also been visiting to assess the area and provide a comprehensive report based on science and data.