ST JAMES, Jamaica — Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon, is imploring residents of St James to avoid using unsafe routes and to heed the warnings of emergency personnel.

“Almost all roadways across St James are now accessible with the exception of Spring Mount and the road leading to Cambridge via Montpelier and Seven Rivers,” he informed.

“We do not recommend persons crossing Seven Rivers. The water is still there, and based on the recommendation of the authorities, do not try to access these roadways or try to cross them until we have given the green light,” he said.

He added that work is being carried out at John’s Hall to provide an alternative route for communities that would normally be accessed via Lottery.

The mayor was speaking at a follow-up meeting of the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) held at the St James Municipal Corporation on Monday.

He said that the parish continues to make steady progress in its recovery efforts following the passage of Hurricane Melissa, with all key stakeholders working in coordination under the EOC.

He noted that the focus across the parish remains the same — restoration, clean-up and monitoring.

He commended the various agencies represented at the EOC, including the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Jamaica Fire Brigade, National Works Agency (NWA), and public health officials, for their continued collaboration in managing the aftermath of the storm.

“We are working together to ensure that every effort is made to restore normalcy safely and efficiently,” he said.

Vernon also commended residents for their cooperation, noting that they have been responding well.

“We understand the plight of our residents and how they are feeling at this point in time, but we are committed to ensuring that they get back their community, comfort and normalcy,” he assured.

The EOC continues to meet regularly to assess recovery operations and provide updates on critical sectors, including infrastructure, sanitation and public health.

—   JIS