Dear Editor,

The Government of Jamaica never ceases to disappoint. As the outer bands of Tropical Storm Nicole lash the island leaving a path of death, destruction and excessive flooding, the toll on the Portmore leg of Highway 2000 is still in full operation throughout. It is several days in and the residents of Portmore are being subjected to paying the full toll. Not a discounted rate, the full toll.

Late yesterday, the toll road became the sole route connecting Portmore to the Corporate Area, as the alternative, Mandela Highway, had been inundated. The highway is always flooded irrespective of corrective measures being attempted. It is always dangerous to traverse — becoming a sea — with the ever-present threat of crocodiles that occupy the surrounding marshes.

I can recall, in the not-too-distant past, approaching the toll when less severe warnings were issued to find the gates open and the employees sent home.

The toll road is being repaired, which makes it hazardous due to the frequently altering and often meandering path. Adding panic and distress resulting from the storm, it has amplified the risk of navigating the roadway.

What would happen in the event of an evacuation, would motorists be told to use the alternative route which is flooded?

Being asked to pay the toll in a disaster is a slap in the face, courtesy of a Government already seen as insulting and aloof.

N Beckford

Portmore

St Catherine