Port Louis Residents Blast Unnecessary Rs 353M Drain Project

Residents of Ward 4 in Port-Louis have petitioned Transport Minister Osman Mahomed over a controversial Rs 353 million drainage construction project on Raoul Rivet Street (pictured), calling it unnecessary and a waste of taxpayer money.

The project, initiated under the previous government and awarded to Safety Construction Co. Ltd., has drawn criticism as the area is not flood-prone.

During a meeting with locals on Monday (photo below), the minister—accompanied by National Development Unit (NDU) officials—heard complaints about road damage, noise, and dust caused by ongoing work.

News Drains: High Cost, Poor Planning

Residents, including Manoj Servansing and Alain Laridon, questioned the project’s high cost and poor planning.

NDU Project Manager Mr. Seetohul defended the scheme, stating it aims to redirect stormwater from Signaux Mountain to Créoles Stream.

The contractor cited delays but assured completion by April 2026. Minister Mahomed urged faster progress to minimize disruption.

Source: l’Express