MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works, Madanlall Ramraj, on Friday updated truckers on the ongoing works and steps being taken to ensure a timely reversal of the temporary reduction in allowable weight for vehicles using the Supenaam–Parika ferry service.

The allowable load was cut to 15 tonnes last Thursday, disrupting the movement of goods between the Essequibo Coast and the mainland, prompting concerns from transport operators, some of whom told the minister the restriction was forcing them into more frequent trips without any increase in pay from those who hire them.

Minister Ramraj explained that the restriction was necessary because of structural issues at both terminals: the drawbridge at Supenaam had been damaged, while ongoing construction at the Parika stelling caused several beams to shift from the concrete-encased piles supporting the new facility.

The Supenaam repairs, however, have been completed, and engineers and consultants are working on a technical solution for the Parika stelling, the minister said.

Ramraj added that the ministry is also examining ways to soften the restriction’s impact on truckers while that work continues.

The minister also acknowledged that the restriction should have come with advance consultation, saying operators whose livelihoods depend on the ferry must be notified in a timely manner whenever changes could affect their work.

He said safety remains the government’s top priority and pledged that every effort is being made to complete repairs and restore normal tonnage limits at both ports as soon as possible.

Truck drivers said they were grateful for the meeting and the opportunity to raise their concerns directly with the minister.