TODAY marks an important moment in Guyana’s economic growth as toll-free travel across the Demerara Harbour Bridge, Berbice River Bridge, and Wismar-Mackenzie Bridge officially begins.
This initiative, introduced by the PPP/C administration under President, D. Irfaan Ali, is more than just removing bridge fees. It represents a big shift in the economy that puts money back into the hands of everyday Guyanese families.
The financial impact of this change is significant. Over 50,000 daily commuters will benefit from billions of dollars in savings.
Families who used to pay between $60 and $1,900 for bridge crossings will see immediate relief. For a typical household using the Berbice Bridge regularly, this means considerable monthly savings that can be used for education, healthcare, and other essential needs.
Small businesses, especially minibuses and transport operators, will greatly benefit from lower operating costs. This relief comes at a crucial time, as inflation continues to affect middle and lower-income households.
By lowering transportation costs across various sectors, the government is helping to stabilise prices for goods and services that depend on bridge crossings, creating a positive impact on the whole economy.
The thoughtful use of the Natural Resources Fund for infrastructural maintenance makes this policy sustainable without hindering future development. This approach shows a commitment to managing finances responsibly, while prioritising the well-being of citizens over generating revenue.
What makes this achievement even more impressive is President Ali’s honest acknowledgement: “We did not even commit this to you in the election.”
This statement highlights how the PPP/C government has gone beyond its initial promises, delivering benefits that surpass what voters were promised in 2020.
The party’s 2020 manifesto focused on creating 50,000 new jobs, cutting red tape, and providing better infrastructure. While toll-free bridges were not specifically mentioned, this initiative fits well with the manifesto’s promise to lower living costs and put more money in the hands of citizens through measures such as removing VAT on utilities and cutting various fees.
This toll-free initiative adds to a list of promises kept.

The PPP/C has already met over 90 per cent of its 2020-2025 manifesto goals, including free university education; building new hospitals and schools; major highway projects such as the Ogle to Eccles route, and the near completion of the new Demerara River Bridge. Prime Minister Mark Phillips summed up the administration’s record well: “Promises made, promises delivered.”
From the Because We Care cash grant to improved healthcare services and the reinstatement of programmes dropped by the previous administration, the PPP/C has shown a strong commitment to improving the lives of Guyanese.
The party’s governing approach reflects a clear understanding that real development comes from hard work, not seasonal handouts.
By removing the financial barriers to movement, the government is promoting increased trade, tourism, and business across regions. This improved connectivity supports a broader strategy for economic diversification that has marked the PPP/C’s development efforts.
The decision also addresses long-standing issues, particularly the double-toll burden that had impacted Linden residents.
This toll-free initiative means more than just financial relief. It shows how oil revenues can be used effectively for the direct benefit of citizens, instead of just piling up in government accounts. The policy reflects a forward-thinking vision that prioritises public welfare while maintaining financial responsibility through diverse funding sources.
As the new four-lane Demerara River Bridge opens for 24-hour access and the Wismar-Mackenzie Bridge nears completion, Guyana is developing a modern transportation network meant to serve its citizens for years to come.
The longevity of these new bridges, paired with their toll-free status, guarantees that this benefit will continue for future generations.
Today’s launch of toll-free travel shows what strong leadership can achieve when it focuses on citizen welfare. The PPP/C has once again shown that going beyond expectations builds the foundation for lasting national progress and prosperity.