IN preparation for the impending road closures linked to the infrastructural enhancement project along the Railway Embankment, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) conducted a sensitisation walkabout on Monday.
Residents and business owners along the embankment were briefed on security measures and detours as construction is ramped up.
Senior police officials, including Assistant Commissioner Errol Watts; Traffic Chief Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, and Regional Division 4C Commander Senior Superintendent Ewart Wray, led the outreach alongside contractors from China Railway First Group Ltd., which is responsible for the project.
During the walkabout, Senior Superintendent Singh outlined the key aspects of the Railway Embankment expansion project, emphasising its aim to improve traffic flow from Mahaica to Ogle. “The expansion aims to facilitate smoother and quicker travel,” he said, noting that while the development is beneficial, it will require temporary road closures.
The Traffic Chief explained that two significant closures are imminent, each lasting about one month. One of the main sections affected will be from Industry Crown Dam to Ogle, which will undergo a full closure to allow for excavation of the existing road. This area will be transformed into a dual-lane roadway with concrete drainage on either side. He stressed that alternative routes will be established to accommodate the high volume of traffic that uses the embankment daily.
“Motorists will be diverted through the East Coast Public Road, flowing into the Rupert Craig Highway and farther west to central Georgetown,” Singh elaborated, detailing the detours in place.
Residents affected by the closures have already received instructions from the Ministry of Public Works on how to access their homes on foot during the construction phase. As progress continues, they will gradually regain vehicle access once the roadbed is stabilised with a crusher run layer. Singh commended residents for their co-operation, highlighting their willingness to use parking spaces on nearby roads, such as Industry Crown Dam, without obstructing traffic.
“The police force is committed to ensuring the situation is managed effectively,” Singh said, affirming that resources will be allocated to keep traffic orderly and prevent unsafe driving in the area. Singh emphasised the importance of drivers adhering to road-safety regulations, particularly with the presence of heavy machinery and stored construction materials along the route. Defensive-driving practices and vigilance around construction zones will be critical, he noted, as machinery and equipment may occasionally encroach on traffic lanes.
To guide both drivers and pedestrians safely, contractors will install signage and illuminated alerts throughout the construction zones. Singh urged all road users to pay close attention to these indicators to prevent accidents and ensure smooth traffic flow.
The road closures and diversions are expected to remain in place until November 24, 2024, at which time the GPF and contractors will evaluate progress and adjust routes as necessary to maintain safety and minimise disruptions.