BL&P weighs in on Hot Pot debate

The Barbados Light & Power Company  (BL&P) has pledged to work with the state-owned National Conservation Commission (NCC) to continue informing the public about the dangers of the natural and strong cross currents along the Brandons and Brighton Beach area.

In a statement Manager of Communications and Government Relations Jackie Marshall-Clarke said the BL&P sought to explain the safety concerns of the area and its role in the existence of the popular Hot Pot at Brighton Beach, St Michael which is now the subject of calls by some people for its closure following the drowning on Sunday of 21-year-old Javonne Moise of Dash Valley, St George.

Moise disappeared at sea while bathing at the Hot Pot with friends and his body washed ashore the following day, 50 meters north of where he went missing.

But the BL&P said this evening that it strives for a workplace where no one gets hurt, and for communities that remain safe in every aspect of life.

The company explained how the Hot Pot was created and how it works.

“A storm drainage channel from Black Rock, along the Mighty Grynner Highway passes through the Light & Power compound on its way to the sea.  The ‘cooling water’ from our generators flows into this watercourse attributing to the raised temperature. The termination point of this channel at Brighton Beach is referred to as the ‘Hot Pot’,” stated the power company.

The company said it proactively works with the Coastal Zone Management Unit (CZMU) and the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) to ensure that the ‘hot pot’ is within safe environmental limits.

“The company also conducts environmental assessments of the waterway from upstream of Light & Power’s operations through its site and out to sea. These reports are generated twice a year for our internal assessment, and submitted annually to the relevant government agencies,” it pointed out.

The BL&P said the entire ‘water flow’ system through the watercourse is influenced by tidal changes resulting in the raising and lowering of the water levels in the ‘hot pot pool’ over the course of any given day.

“The water flow from Light & Power’s operations is not strong, yet constant, which prevents stagnancy, as experienced with other watercourses in the area. However, as evidenced by the mounted warning sign in the area, persons are advised about bathing with the known strong currents in this area and no lifeguard facility.

“It has been recognized, that the beach and seascape along the Brandons/Brighton area, have many natural and strong currents at varying times. We will work with the National Conservation Commission (NCC) and other agencies to continue to raise awareness to these natural cross currents,” the company promised.

“Light & Power remains committed to the health, wellness of the employees and all Barbadians, and the safety and environmental quality of all aspects of its business and our communities,” the firm said. (EJ/PR)