CDA allowing desecration in Chaguaramas

The Chaguaramas Development Authority (CDA) promotes the wildlife of the Chaguaramas area in its advertising. This is, supposedly, an area where wildlife is protected. My friends and I walk regularly in the area. Seeing the monkeys and hearing the birds always add something special to our walks. Last Thursday, we saw a large howler near the golf course and a capuchin just before the Bamboo Cathedral. I wonder when we shall see them again.

As we entered the Bamboo Cathedral we saw workmen building a large stage and heard them say part of it is for dancing. The tents were set up and, with the stage, blocked the entire roadway through the area. We had to climb across the stage to continue our walk. A truck drove up and unloaded a generator. Stage-light fittings were lying on the stage and there were signs that a large sound system was to be set up.

We inquired what was going on, thinking there was to be some theatrical performance. We were told that there was to be a wedding there on the weekend. A wedding? How can the CDA give permission to anyone to block off this beautiful area for such a noisy event? What about people who want walk up to the dish on Friday, Saturday and Sunday? There is no alternative approach.

Much more important is the impact this will have on the wildlife that live peacefully in that area. The noise will drive out the animals from a large area around the event. Is this how the CDA promotes the beauty of Chaguaramas and its fascinating wildlife? Are they allowing money to talk so much louder than the howlers howl and the capuchins chatter?

What can we, who love the peace, beauty and natural sounds of this area, do about it? We can only protest, and encourage others who use the area to do the same. The CDA must not allow this to happen again.

PA Green
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