The biggest J’Ouvert celebrations in the history of Chaguanas Carnival commenced around 5.45 am on Monday. Chaguanas Mayor Gopaul Boodhan and Chaguanas East MP Stephen Cadiz played mas in the band Mass Hysteria in the section Semi-Geriatric. Boodhan said all proceeds from Mass-Hysteria would go towards youth development projects in the borough. Cadiz, who is also the Transport Minister, said 2014 was his second year playing J’Ouvert in Chaguanas. He was happy to see thousands staying at home and supporting cultural activity in the area.
Orlando Nagessar, chairman of the Chaguanas Carnival Committee, was also pleased with the large turnout of spectators and bands. The new route, starting on Ramsaran Street into Saith Park then onto Chaguanas Main Road, worked well for the 20 bands crossing the stage, Nagessar said. “Last year was chaotic. Bandleaders complained. This year, we came up with a successful solution.
“I am happy to see the crowd co-operating with the police. “We had a large turnout of police as promised and the celebrations at Ramsaran Street were without any events,” Senior Superintendent Johnny Abraham said. There were two minor incidents along the Chaguanas Main Road and police acted quickly, Abraham said. Area police will not tolerate any “nonsense” from people attending celebrations, he said.