While many businesses such as supermarkets and larger restaurants had access to generators in case of an extended power outage like that on Wednesday, the President of the Greater San Fernando Chamber of Commerce Kiran Singh said the average Small and Medium Enterprise( SME) either did not own or could not afford one in such event…

Speaking with Loop News today, Singh said as a result, what ensued was an avalanche of related problems, including loss of communication within the business sector as well as water shortages. He said like in many other parts of the country, businesses were forced to close their doors early.

“The loss of income and sales were immediately felt as all economic and social activity had to come to a complete stop in the middle of the day. This is the second time we have experienced such a black out.”

He said the business community is also supporting the call of several other stakeholders including the Minister of Public Utilities for a thorough investigation into the event.

“Members of the chamber would like the assurance that all efforts are made to prevent a recurrence of this magnitude. We would also like a contingency plan should in case something like this happen it can be rectified in a more expedient manner.”