Guyana: Concerns Raised Over Fort Zeelandia During Independence Flag Raising Ceremony

Concerns have been raised about the condition of Fort Zeelandia, a nearly 300-year-old structure located on Fort Island, following the flag raising ceremony for Guyana’s 60th independence anniversary. A city and regional planner, Dr. Allyson Stoll, highlighted potential risks to the fort’s integrity due to activities that took place during the event.

Reports indicate that topsoil was removed and mangroves, which serve as a natural habitat for various species, were bulldozed in the vicinity of the fort. During the ceremony, there was no visible enforcement of the National Trust’s regulations, leading to individuals climbing and walking on parts of the fort that are already showing signs of wear from weathering. Members of the Disciplined Services were also observed standing on the upper flat of the fort.

Dr. Stoll emphasized that such actions could lead to further damage, stating that the fort’s ramparts are at risk of collapse, especially with the removal of surrounding vegetation. She noted that loose bricks have already been taken by local residents for construction purposes.

The National Trust has placed a warning sign near the fort, indicating that individuals who disturb or damage the site could face fines of GY$130,000 and potential legal action for repairs. The National Trust Act specifies penalties for those who interfere with national monuments without permission.

Dr. Stoll also pointed out that no scientific assessments have been conducted to determine the current condition of the fort, including the stability of its walls and the integrity of the iron braces installed in the 1740s. She criticized the decision to introduce river sand to the site, calling it an untested and potentially harmful operation.

Experts continue to call for careful consideration and preservation of Fort Zeelandia, a significant historical landmark.

Source: demerarawaves.com