National

Cowpen Road Shantytown Residents Plead For More Time

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The clock is ticking for shantytown residents living in an area off of Cowpen Road. Eviction notices were placed on the homes today, once again putting a spotlight on these illegal communities.

Published

5 months ago

August 8, 2024

Joshua Williams

But the occupants are already asking for more time. Our Joshua Williams visited the area today.

Curious eyes greeted us as my cameraman Steve and I entered what’s known as the T Wash shantytown off Cowpen Road.

On the homes, 28-day eviction notices, before illegal structures are torn down.

It’s a continuation of the shantytown’s task force demolition program.

This gentleman I met took us through the village: cramped pathways, clothes hanging across the way, muddy terrain, and residents going about their normal cooking and cleaning duties.

Our guide and translator say like him, many have nowhere to go.

In other shantytowns I’ve visited, residents have complained of having to pay rent to Bahamian landowners.

Drone footage shows a tightly packed area of structures. Our guide estimates some 200 structures housing hundreds, many of them permit holders.

Even getting water is a task. They tell me they draw it from wells like this one, which can be a challenge.

And just like all the other shantytowns, the cry for more time is heard again.