The Linden bauxite operations at Linden, controlled by the Chinese firm, BOSAI, is still evaluating the foundation characteristics of the soil in the area to re-establish a dust collection system to help reduce dust emission in the bauxite town of Linden.

Mr. Vance Reid, speaking for the bauxite firm, said that the evaluation process which began last year is expected to be completed by March this year.

Reid related that the testing is being done as part of its assessment in which some 180 soil samples are being looked at for geo-technical properties.

This is essential to help in the eventual design of the new dust collection system which will pave the way for foundation work to begin. After this, the actual design will be done and the system is expected to arrive in Guyana for installation between April and June of this year.

The decision by BOSAI to install a new dust collection apparatus followed concerns voiced by residents of the communities as well as from the regulating agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency and the Geology and Mines Commission. (Joe Chapman)