WITH 92.5 percent of the US$106.4 million Ogle to Eccles four-lane highway completed, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, conducted a site visit on December 31, 2024, ensuring the momentum of the development continued through the holiday season. The two-year project, which began in June 2022, is on track for completion by January 24, 2025, according to updates from project managers, consultants, and the contractor.

“While we are building the roads, we have to remember that the beneficiaries are the people of Guyana,” Minister Edghill stated during his visit. He praised the contractor, Ashoka Buildcon Limited, for fostering strong relationships with local residents and addressing community concerns transparently.
“The collaboration with all stakeholders, including the contractor and residents of the communities, has been exceptional. Open communication has been the key to this success,” he added.

Despite the Christmas holidays, Ashoka Buildcon Limited continued work on the highway, a move Minister Edghill commended. “While some local contractors and staff from GWI were on holiday, the contractor recognised the importance of maintaining progress and getting the job done,” he noted.
During his visit, the minister addressed concerns from residents directly impacted by the project. Emphasising the government’s priority on minimising inconvenience, he stated, “Our number one aim is to make sure that the people are satisfied. Ninety percent of our effort is dedicated to ensuring community comfort. Contractors, project managers, and consultants are encouraged to ensure that residents have access to their properties while work is ongoing.”
He assured residents that temporary access arrangements would be made during construction interruptions and that permanent access would be fully restored upon project completion. The minister also encouraged residents to communicate specific needs, such as access for funerals or weddings, with on-site contractors to ensure accommodations are made.

PROJECT MILESTONES AND REMAINING WORK
Approximately 3.7 kilometres of asphalt pavement have been completed, representing 20 percent of the remaining paving work. Minister Edghill indicated that the remaining 80 percent is on schedule for completion within the project’s timeline. Final tasks include the removal of utility lines obstructing the project’s path.
Ashoka Buildcon Limited’s contractor, Ramachandar Rao, affirmed the company’s readiness to complete the remaining works swiftly. “We have mobilised all the necessary materials to finish the project in the shortest possible time,” he stated.
In addition to the Ogle to Eccles highway visit, Minister Edghill inspected the East Coast Road Widening Project at Cummings Lodge. His site visits underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring the timely and efficient execution of key infrastructure projects.
As the January 2025 deadline approaches, the completion of the Ogle to Eccles highway promises to enhance connectivity and benefit communities, exemplifying the government’s dedication to development with minimal disruption to its citizens.