Mabaruma Residents Decry Cutting Down of Historic Rubber Trees

27th of January, 2021. Region 1, Guyana, South America

The issue of whether to cut down the historic rubber trees along the famous “Rubber Walk” in Mabaruma has been a topic of hot debate over the years. Some argue that infrastructural development demands removing the trees, while others contend that alternative routes can be mapped and there is no need to cut the trees down. Indeed, the giant rubber trees along the so called Rubber Walk carries both historic and sentimental values for residents of Region 1 as well as the whole of Guyana. In addition to being a landmark, the site serves to beautify the environment and is a potential tourist attraction.

However, on January, 2021, the executive decision has been made by the Maburama Town Council to cut the trees down and the exercise will commence today, 27th of January, 2021. The Mabaruma Town Council posted the following message yesterday (26th) via its Facebook Page.

The Mabaruma Town Council wish to advise all Road users and the general public at large that there will be a closure of the road in the Mabaruma Compound Area for the general public from Tomorow (27th/01/2021) to facilitate the cutting of the Rubber Trees. All persons and vehicles are asked to use the Backroad from the Broomes Playfield to King James Gocery shop & the Road between NIS and the Power company to the Mabaruma Nursary School which will be directed by a Traffic Rank. We do apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Everyone (drivers and commuters) are asked to cooperate for the Development of Mabaruma. Thank you.

Update: Minister Nigel Dharamlall Calls for Halt to Mabaruma Tree-Cutting Exercise

Photos: Alva Solomon