The decision by some Carnival bands to opt out of parading along the route in East Port of Spain, commonly known as ‘Behind the Bridge’, is being criticised by the Uptown Carnival Improvement Committee.

However, the Committee says it is taking proactive steps to restore the route’s appeal and will be unveiling a series of new initiatives aimed at attracting both masqueraders and spectators back to the area.

President of the Uptown Carnival Improvement Committee, Dr Vijay Ramlal-Rai, says despite the historical significance of mas ‘Behind the Bridge’, the area has not been receiving the recognition it deserves, with many Carnival bands opting to exclude it from their Carnival parade routes.