IN a compelling parliamentary presentation, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing Guyana’s infrastructure with a $252 billion allocation in Budget 2025.
The funding, he emphasised, will support the continuation of transformative initiatives launched in 2020 under the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) administration.
For the first time in Guyana’s history, all 29 bridges and roads connecting Regions Eight and Nine will be constructed under a single government initiative. Minister Edghill noted that this development will significantly ease transportation between these regions, thereby reducing the cost of living for residents and improving economic opportunities.

“All of the bridges from Karasabai to Paramakatoi will be completed. For the first time, there will be smooth travel between Region Eight and Nine,” Minister Edghill declared. “Due to this transportation link, the cost of development in these communities will be significantly reduced, people will have better homes, there will be improved infrastructure, livelihoods will be enhanced, and food prices will decline.”

The minister highlighted that every region, including hinterland communities, will benefit from enhanced land connectivity. Projects are currently in progress, completed, or nearing completion in communities such as Waramuri, White Water, Rukumuta, Yurong Paru, Port Kaituma, Mabaruma, Muroca, and Laluni. Alongside these, hundreds of roads and bridges along the coastland are set for continued development and expansion.

In addition to land infrastructure, Budget 2025 supports critical improvements in river connectivity. This includes the acquisition of new vessels and upgrades to existing waterway transport systems to accommodate the growing number of people and vehicles that rely on these routes.
“Three new wooden cargo boats will be introduced to service the Pomeroon, Berbice, and Northwest channels,” Minister Edghill announced. “Additionally, new vessels will be added for the Parika to Supenaam route in Region Two, alongside the completion of works on the MV Makouria, MV Malali, MV Kananwan, and MV Sabanto.”

He further stated that the government will finalise dredging operations in the Demerara River and remove wrecks from both the Essequibo and Demerara Rivers to ensure the safe passage of larger vessels.
Recognising the need for enhanced road safety, Minister Edghill announced that approximately $2 billion has been earmarked for the installation of traffic lights.

He also highlighted the establishment of a cabinet subcommittee, chaired by Prime Minister Brigadier Mark Phillips, comprising traffic officers from across Guyana to engage with the public on road safety matters.
“We are implementing geometric improvements on roads and studying pedestrian movements,” he said. “More than 4,000 kilometres of sidewalks are being constructed to ensure the safety of pedestrians by keeping them out of motorized traffic.”

Additionally, the Ministry of Housing and Water will allocate designated parking areas for trucks to prevent them from being parked on road shoulders or obstructing roadways.
Minister Edghill also took the opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments of his ministry since the PPP/C government regained office in 2020. Over the past four years, significant infrastructure projects have been completed, including: 4,322 km of roads constructed; 150 bridges rehabilitated and 66

maintained; 25,783 km of sea and river defence structures built, with 328,751 km maintained; and 11 hinterland airstrips completed.

He underscored that Budget 2025 is designed to further enhance connectivity and improve access to healthcare, education, home ownership, and road safety across the country.
With this extensive allocation, the government continues to position Guyana for sustainable development, economic growth, and an improved quality of life for its citizens.