radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
Villagers are preparing to break down two galvanised barricades set up by a squatter at South Oropouche.
This after an investigation done by the Siparia Regional Corporation revealed that the road was privately owned by prominent Oropouche landowner Myrtle Partap and not a squatter who had claimed ownership of two acres of land.
Partap’s estates Belle Vue and Providence have been overrun with squatters over the past few decades.
Speaking to Guardian Media yesterday, councillor for the area Doodnath Mayrhoo said the squatter, who blocked the roadway, was not the owner of the road.
“Our team from the Surveys Department visited the area and did an investigation and we have identified that Myrtle Partap is the owner of the property,” Mayrhoo said.
He explained that he has been speaking to officials in charge of her estate and the onus is now on them to remove the barricade from their private roadway.
The road had been built 10 years ago to facilitate a housing project. However, squatters, who had been occupying the lands, have expanded into newer acreages.
Mayrhoo said the man accused of building the barricades had been embroiled in a court matter with Partap after his home was bulldozed in 2017.
However, the road is now being claimed by the squatter who has prevented other squatters from using the road, Mayrhoo added.
Meanwhile, Terrence Ramgattan, whose family have occupied the lands for over 50 years, said they planned to meet with Partap tomorrow to discuss the matter.
He explained that many people use the road for exercise and to graze animals. Ramgattan said once Partap gives permission, the villagers will come out and break down the barricades.