Lucian Carnival has undeniably reached a vibrant and exhilarating new level, pleasing organizers and revelers, but it is clear that some significant issues need resolution.
On Carnival Monday, the street parade in Castries showcased ten competing bands, presenting a stunning array of performances in the following order: Tribe of Twell – Bel Wad Ek Soulye, Royalites Xtreme – Africa: The Untold, Legends – X Year of Bacchanal, Xuvo – Isle of Angels, Xpression – Folk Lore: L’espwi De Eksitasyon, Fusion Mas – Pixels, Just 4 Fun Mas, Island Tribe – Cyborg, Nexus Mas, and Phoenix – A Piece of Me – A Look Deep Within.
As the parade progressed past the Judge’s Base along Jn. Baptiste Street and onto the center stage, revelers erupted in joyful celebration, showcasing their creatively and culturally rich costumes through captivating phrases and skits.
A strong presence from the Carnival Management Planning Committee and partner organizations such as the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) and the Events Company of Saint Lucia (ESCL) ensured the smooth operation of the event.
Officers from the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) were actively monitoring the crowd, complemented by increased private security personnel, some in neatly-attired uniforms, who accompanied the bands as they paraded through the streets.
CPMC announcers reported that two of the competing bands, Xuvo and Just 4 Fun, accommodated over 2,000 revelers each, while Royalites Extreme attracted more than 900 jumpers.
The day was a spectacle of colorful costumes, artistic creativity, drama, theatrics, and exhilarating live performances from artists like Ricky T, Arthur Allain, and DYP, and others as the ‘Big Trucks’ rolled through with their electrifying tunes.
However, a persistent issue remains: spectators have consistently highlighted the frustratingly long distances that mini-buses must navigate through back roads to enter and exit the city during peak revelry hours.
This is due to traffic diversions on the John Compton Highway, necessitated to allow revelers to jump from the Choc roundabout into the heart of the city. Mini-bus drivers have also voiced that current fares do not adequately compensate for these extended routes.
Although initial reports suggesting a ‘temporary strike’ protest by Gros Islet mini-bus drivers due to insufficient compensation; these rumours were denied by the Gros Islet Mini-bus Association’s president.
Nonetheless , the traffic situation—particularly on the busy JC Highway and northern routes—remains problematic.
It is imperative for the Gros Islet Association to reassess their service policies and priorities, especially with numerous festive events and holidays on the horizon. Implementing a plan to deploy between 10 to 20 drivers on these busy days is essential, particularly at the conclusion of these events even if it requires a minimal extra charge for service during such high-demand events.
Immediate action on this front is necessary to enhance overall experience during the carnival.
[The Voice Pub will provide further updates on Lucian Carnival in our subsequent issue].