Dear Editor,

I AM writing to let you know how worried I am about how some people are using the new Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge.

The bridge is a great symbol of national progress and modern infrastructure, but I am very worried about the disturbing reports and observations of unsafe and inappropriate behaviour happening on it.

People have been seen stopping on the bridge to take pictures and videos, and some even use it as a “liming spot” where they drink and hang out.

Reports of people urinating and defecating on the structure are even more troubling. This behaviour is both unhygienic and completely disrespectful to such an important national asset.

These actions not only put the safety of drivers and pedestrians at risk, but they also hurt the reputation of our country’s most important infrastructural project.

The bridge is not meant for fun; it’s meant for getting people from one place to another quickly. Stopping on it for no reason makes the road more dangerous and could even cause tragic accidents.

Because of this, I am asking the Government of Guyana and the right people to start a full public education campaign right away that explains how to use the new bridge safely. This campaign should use TV, radio, social media, and signs on both sides of the facility to make sure that everyone knows how to act when using it.

At the same time, I want to thank the Guyana Police Force for its ongoing work to keep traffic moving and keeping the bridge safe. I really appreciate their presence and watchfulness, and I hope that enforcement like this will be stepped up along with efforts to educate the public.

Let’s all do our part to keep this important piece of national infrastructure safe, clean, and respected. Following the rules isn’t just about the police; it’s also about national pride and duty.

Faithfully yours,

Ken John