On November 20, flash flooding struck several low-lying areas in the Penal/Debe municipality, leaving dozens of motorists stranded. The incident occurred despite the Penal Debe Regional Corporation (PDRC) receiving a significant 120% increase in funding for fiscal 2026. PDRC Chairman Gowtam Maharaj revealed that detailed mitigation plans are being prepared for the upcoming dry season to address the recurring issue. Speaking at the Debe office, Maharaj acknowledged the success of watercourse clearing efforts initiated earlier this year, which prevented major household flooding. However, he emphasized that more work is needed to resolve bottlenecks caused by encroachments, fallen trees, and outdated infrastructure. The flooding primarily affected areas such as SS Erin Road, Batchyia Village, Patiram Trace, Clarke Road, and Rock Road, with Rock Road experiencing the deepest waters. Maharaj outlined plans for remedial works across all ten municipal districts, which are set to be approved at the council’s statutory meeting on November 27. Collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure and the South Oropouche River Basin project is also planned to mitigate future floods. Maharaj expressed relief over the reversal of a previous policy that delayed contractor payments, which he believes hindered progress. With 60% of the municipality located within the Oropouche watershed, the area remains highly flood-prone, with the last major flooding event occurring in September 2024.