WILLEMSTAD - A significant number of palapas in the recreational area of Marie Pampoen were engulfed in flames yesterday. The fire department has confirmed that the fire was intentionally set. The recreational area includes a beach section with 9 palapas.
Minister Cijntje, responsible for tourism, visited the site of the fire to assess the situation. He expressed his dismay, stating, "This is regrettable, a situation we did not anticipate. Our own people, three young individuals under a palapa, and then a massive flame."
He condemned the act and pledged that the perpetrators would be held accountable. The minister urged anyone with information about the culprits, including the parents of the young individuals, to come forward.
Rules
"We believe that there are people who know and have seen, and we need to figure out how to protect this place. Together with the CTB and other stakeholders, we will explore ways to safeguard this area to prevent such behavior in the future."
The minister is considering implementing stricter rules to protect the area from such behavior. "People's behavior requires us to establish rules. We are not civilized enough to behave in such a beautiful environment like Marie Pampoen," stated Cijntje.
On July 12 of this year, the third phase of Marie Pampoen was inaugurated. In the presence of dignitaries, the ribbon was cut for the official opening of this area.
Recreation
In addition to the nine palapas, there is also a playground for children, an outdoor fitness area for people with disabilities, a picnic area, a skate park, a beach volleyball field, 4 kiosks for commercial activities, a restroom facility, and various benches and tables.
Furthermore, walking and running routes have been improved and expanded, new paths have been created, landscape architecture has been implemented, and various types of lighting, as well as installations for water, electricity, and sewage, have been realized.