Residents of Alliance Road in Timehri are calling for urgent assistance to address a severe bee infestation that has plagued their community for over 16 years. The situation has escalated to the point where children are being chased off the road, and families are locking themselves indoors out of fear.
One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, described the growing danger, stating, “It just keeps getting worse. They come dressed in full gear to handle the bees, but they leave, and the bees are still flying all around. It’s dangerous.” The land across from her home is reportedly used for a honey-harvesting business, which, while legal, is not adequately regulated, according to the residents.
“Sometimes you can’t even pass. Bees are swarming the road, and schoolchildren have to detour through the neighborhood just to get home safely,” she added, expressing her concern over the situation. Videos captured by residents show swarms of bees in the area, further illustrating the severity of the problem.
The resident recounted a distressing incident involving her young daughter, who was stung multiple times in the head while being taken to the police station. “Her whole head got bite up. It was terrifying,” she said, highlighting the risks faced by children in the community.
Despite numerous reports to the police, the national emergency hotline (911), and attempts to reach out to the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and other authorities, residents claim that no effective action has been taken. “I even posted on Facebook begging for help, but people just keep saying they’ll call back, and no one ever does,” she lamented.
Frustrated and fearful, the residents are appealing for immediate intervention from the Environmental Protection Agency, the Ministry of Agriculture, or other relevant authorities. They seek a solution that ensures community safety while also respecting the rights of the business operating nearby.
“We understand it’s a business, but this is a residential area. Our children and elderly are exposed daily. We can’t live like this anymore,” she implored, echoing the sentiments of her neighbors who are desperate for a resolution.
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