For the second time in one week local authorities issued a no-swimming advisory for Great Bay (see Tuesday paper), because water was being pumped into the sea through Rolandus Channel to control the level of Great Salt Pond and prevent flooding.
This time also the emergency outlet of Fresh Pond via the beach had to be opened for the same reason, so the precautionary note was well-taken in that area too.
On the first occasion there were two cruise ships visiting the island and yesterday one. Especially since the Boardwalk Boulevard was realised a considerable number of passengers make use of the possibility to visit the beach in Philipsburg and possibly combine it with some downtown shopping.
In other words, Great Bay is an important part of the local hospitality product and Port St. Maarten quickly reminded everyone of such.
The Government-owned company said its Master Plan 2 included a pipe to take the runoff water one mile out; so far it would no longer present a health threat along the shore. However, nature lovers immediately inquired about negative effects this aspect and for that matter the entire project could have on coral reefs and other marine life. Some even asked whether the sewage to come from several commercial developments taking place at Pointe Blanche would end up there as well.
What’s also notable is that it doesn’t seem to take very much rain anymore before measures to alleviate the pond-levels are required. One can’t help but wonder whether those who claimed the retention capacity was limited too much in particular by the still-uncompleted Ring Road might have had a point.
The solution offered by the Harbour would seem to make sense, but a proper environmental impact study certainly should be carried out to ensure a sustainable approach. Let’s face it though: ultimately the destination and its tourism economy would be better off if visitors don’t have to be told it’s not responsible to enjoy the waters of what is – after all – sold as a tropical paradise.
