THE Public Works Ministry, on Friday, signed a number of contracts for the construction and upgrade of roads and bridges in the hinterland regions and communities along the coast.

The contracts signed at the ministry’s Kingston office, include those for the upgrade of 32 bridges between Kurupukari and Lethem to the tune of $3.19 billion along with $1.5 billion for hinterland roads, a release from the Department of Public Information (DPI) said.

Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill explained that the construction and upgrade of the roads and bridges in the hinterland forms part of the government’s strategy to advance hinterland development through enhanced inter-connectivity.

While work is advancing on the US $190 million Linden to Mabura Road project, works will also commence on upgrading all the bridges to concrete structures, since the road is the first phase of what will be the Linden to Lethem Road.

“This is no small project and must be treated seriously, because the intent is that this road must meet all international standards and the removing of the timber bridges and putting of concrete bridges must be to international standards,” the Public Works Minister stated.

The bridge project will be done in six lots, with six contractors being awarded contracts. Minister Edghill noted the need for great communication and coordination among the contractors, since the thoroughfare will have to remain open for the residents to traverse.

In addition to the Linden to Mabura road project and bridge upgrades, the government is also working to ensure that there is a direct link between Regions Eight and Nine.

“Last year, we worked with the toshaos and communities in Region Eight to improve the roads between the villages and commenced works on the road between the two regions. Those works will continue this year,” Minister Edghill explained.

He said the investment of over $1.5 billion in hinterland roads follows consultations with residents, Toshaos and other village leaders.  He noted further, that this is just the first phase of the awarding of contracts for roads in the hinterland.

Meanwhile, the DPI report noted that the sum of $740.1 million in contracts was also signed for farm-to-market roads to ensure farmers across the country have access to better roads to get their produce to the market. The project also aligns with the government’s plan to ensure the country becomes a major player in providing agricultural products to the Caribbean and to reduce CARICOM’s import bill by 25 per cent by 2025.

Further, the sum of $139.1 million was awarded for the upgrade of bridges along the coast. These include bridges along the Railway Embankment. Additionally, the ministry will be procuring a number of equipment including milling machines at a cost of $117. 7 million to equip its Force Account Unit.

Minister Edghill made it clear that the final award and issuance of contracts was done through a public tendering process and that it was advertised and contractors had an opportunity to bid for the various projects. Contractors were urged to ensure quality work is delivered within the stipulated deadline.

These projects are as a direct result of President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s vision to ensure Guyana’s infrastructural transformation is spread across all communities in the country.