PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali’s announcement of toll-free access on the Berbice, Demerara, and Wismar bridges in Guyana by August 1, 2025, is a significant milestone in the country’s development towards economic and social progress.

The action, which was greeted with enthusiastic applause at a celebration of the late Dr Cheddi Jagan, further indicates that the government is committed to improving the quality of life of Guyanese citizens and fostering a more cohesive society.

By eliminating the tolls on these critical bridges, the government seeks to relax the economic burden on commuters, boost economic activity and make the nation more integrated and accessible.

This move is aligned with the overall push for economic development and social equity, as it will facilitate the free flow of people and commodities between strategic economic clusters.

The abolition of tolls is expected to boost local economies through reductions in transportation costs, inducing more travel and trade and enhancing the nation’s connectivity.

Making these bridges toll free is a policy action that shows concern for the public interest and ensuring equitable access to the country’s growing infrastructural complex.

President Ali’s statement, “This is investment, this is development,” sums up the vision for this undertaking.

It reiterates the government’s pro-active stance in terms of public infrastructure and determination to address the people’s issue on the expense of transportation.

With sustained, high investments from Guyana towards the development of its infrastructure, removed tolls will provide immediate financial relief to citizens and ensure more seamless transfer of goods and people, hence boosting commerce and trade.

This is an unprecedented step towards economic and societal advancement in Guyana.