Says Schoonord to Crane Highway will alleviate traffic congestion, foster closer family relation.

DESPITE encountering some challenges, both the project manager and Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, are optimistic that the Schoonord to Crane Highway will be fully constructed by January 2025, at the latest.

Minister Croal, during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, highlighted the transformative impact of the extensive infrastructural development on the daily travel experience of those using the East Bank Roads, and consequently, on the entire nation of Guyana.

According to him, “most of the lots are progressing nicely; however, we were faced with some difficulties with one of the lots that caused us some setbacks and delays, but mechanisms were put in place by the contractor to address the issues. It is expected that we will move on from that very quickly so that we can deal with the other developments, which are a roundabout that is to be constructed at Crane.”

Recognising that traffic congestion is one of the main challenges posed by the extensive developments taking place throughout the country, particularly along the coastland, Minister Croal said, “As ministers, we traverse the roadways daily, and even if we are escorted to some of these locations, whether it is in Region Three or the East Bank of Demerara roadways, the traffic is always an issue. So, we understand and have first-hand experiences of the hassle and challenges that people are faced with on a daily basis, to get to work, run errands, or some to get medical attention. Let us not forget the children, as well, to get to school.”

The Housing Minister stated that President Ali, who has a vision for both the people and the country’s infrastructure, believes that the highway serves a greater purpose than just reducing traffic congestion and providing more choices for drivers. Additionally, he emphasises that this initiative aims to provide Guyanese individuals with faster and safer transportation options, allowing them to have more valuable moments with their families and loved ones.

Minister Croal said, “The aim of the Schoonord to Crane highway is nothing different from the other highways that we already have or from the ones that are currently undergoing construction. President Ali’s vision of developing the infrastructure of Guyana comes from his passion for unity in the country, so that people can spend more time with their families instead of having to wait for hours in traffic.

Importance of Infrastructural Development  
Minister Croal addressed the issue of certain individuals, particularly from the opposition, who disregard the importance of development in the country and the opportunities it creates for Guyanese citizens. He labelled their actions as an attempt to brainwash the nation, but expressed confidence that their efforts would be in vain.

He believes that by investing in infrastructure, “we are creating a favorable environment for our citizens.” This includes constructing new highways, bridges, communities, and various other developments that will benefit people throughout the country. Through these substantial investments, our citizens are securing various job opportunities, not only as workers but also as contractors, supervisors, engineers, mechanics, and more.

“For the opposition to act as though they are not seeing these things, is not surprising to us anymore; it is their way of trying to brainwash the population, but people know what they are seeing, and they are benefitting. We want to invite them to speak to the residents in these areas where these developments are happening and ask them how their small businesses have improved. I also want to say that, as a government, we are proud to know that it is not just our men that are capitalising on these opportunities, but it is our women and young people as well.”
Additionally, Minister Croal emphasised that when the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) speaks of development, they aren’t being specific to one race of people; they are speaking to “all Guyanese,” regardless of their ethnicity.

“I would also like to encourage anyone who has doubts about the government’s developmental plans for all of its people that the records are there, the numbers are there, and the numbers do not lie. Anyone who believes that we are favouring one race over another should have a look at the statistics. Every one of our policies is for our people across the board; test books and cash grants are not given to a selected set of children in this country; every child is entitled to that; awarding of house lots is not based on face; it is about your application; and when we award contracts to our contactors, whether how big or small their businesses are, it doesn’t matter; it is based on whether you qualify or not,” Minister Croal added.

“When President Ali speaks of ‘One Guyana’ it isn’t because it sounds good; it is because he believes in that, and so do we,” the Minister explained.