Works Minister Robert Morgan has reported that about 500 truckloads of silt were removed from the Sandy Gully in Kingston over the past five days.

The desilting works, which were initially planned for early next year, were carried out in preparation for Hurricane Melissa.

The Category 5 Hurricane is projected to make landfall tonight or early tomorrow morning.

Speaking at a special press briefing at Jamaica House this morning, Mr. Morgan noted that the works are part of efforts to protect lives and properties.

Mr. Morgan added that while he understands citizens’ desire for the de-silting works to be expanded, the National Works Agency (NWA) has done as much as it can, ahead of the hurricane.