–three-week technical assessment launched
–as gov’t moves to improve connectivity, unlock economic activities in hinterland communities
PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has ordered a major push to complete several critical bridges in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), announcing a three-week deadline for a full technical assessment and signalling the government’s commitment to fast-track construction where possible.
Addressing residents of Rukumutu and satellite villages during a community meeting, President Ali said the bridges are vital to the region’s economic well-being and connectivity, and confirmed that a ministerial team will be dispatched to move the projects forward without delay.
“There are seven important bridges that the region has raised with me that are important for the economic well-being and the connectivity of the region,” he told villagers.
These include the Sand Creek, Yakarita and Katoka bridges among others. The President noted that the engineers will also explore the possible use of sections of the old Demerara Bridge to complete the outstanding works for these infrastructures.
The President has tasked the Public Works Minister Juan Edghill with leading a team in the region to complete an assessment within three weeks on what is required to finish the seven bridges.
This assessment will determine the technical scope of works needed for each bridge and resource requirements for completion, and a realistic but accelerated construction schedule, prioritising those bridges that can be completed most quickly.
“They will complete an assessment within the next three weeks of what it will take to have those major bridges completed,” the Head of State said.
These works will form part of a broader infrastructural and developmental agenda for Region Nine, which also includes an internal roads programme and major investments in community services.
The President noted that regional authorities have already submitted a programme for internal roads, and he has instructed that a meeting be convened between the Minister of Public Works, regional officials and the Minister of Local Government to develop a joint strategy for roll out.
The President further noted that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has been able to successfully deliver on all its promises previously made to the respective communities.
“We want a government that is in the church, in the temples, in the mosque, in the village, with the children in cultural activity. We want a government that is with the people at every single level,” the Head of State declared.
He affirmed that the government will continue to engage residents, ensuring that livelihoods are improved through tangible investments.
The President stressed that the government’s strategy is to expand access, education, healthcare and support for pensioners, thereby improving the overall quality of life in remote areas.
Meanwhile, Public Works Minister Edghill pointed out that all works being done in hinterland communities are done by local contractors.
Edghill commended the quality of the work, saying this was possible because President Ali believes in empowering people through training, employment, and local leadership.
Minister Edghill noted that this community-led model has also been applied in other areas, including Monkey Mountain, Karasabai, and other communities.
Reassuring residents of the government’s continued focus on their welfare, he pledged that: “Every day we will continue to work in your interest. We will look after you, we will think about you and what is best for you.”
