Building a modern Guyana: Infrastructure as the engine of progress
The transformation of Guyana’s infrastructure since the PPP/C Administration took office in 2020 stands as a testament to the government’s resolute dedication to progress.
The country has witnessed and will continue to experience the construction of new roads, bridges, and other vital facilities that uplift communities and improve the overall quality of life for citizens.
One key project is the construction of a new Demerara River Bridge valued at $5.2 billion. The groundwork for the four-lane high-span bridge has commenced.
The structure, set to redefine connectivity, embodies the legacy of a government committed to monumental change.
Similarly, the Corentyne River Bridge, a US$2 million initiative linking Guyana to Suriname, is steadily advancing.
Equally pivotal is the acceleration of the Linden to Mabura Hill Road, poised to link regions and strengthen transportation with an allocated budget of $11.9 billion.
The government’s strategic planning extends beyond these mammoth projects to the development of community roads, with a dedicated fund of $38.5 billion earmarked for their construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance.
Simultaneously, attention to major highways like the Soesdyke to Linden and the East Coast to East Bank linkage projects underscore a comprehensive strategy to tackle traffic congestion and bolster connectivity.
The pulse of development resonates through hinterland regions as the government allocated $3.4 billion in 2022, followed by an additional $5 billion in 2023.
These efforts show the government’s commitment to enhancing accessibility in remote areas like Moruca, Port Kaituma, Issano, North Pakaraimas, and Matarkai.
This strategic investment not only fosters economic growth but also augments the quality of life for residents.
Additionally, focus is also being placed on hinterland airstrips, with a substantial $1.6 billion allocation for rehabilitation.
Added to this, the transformation of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport into a state-of-the-art aviation hub mirrors the government’s forward-thinking approach catering to the evolving needs of air travellers.
Meanwhile, river transportation networks have not been overlooked as projects spanning the construction and refurbishment of river ports, procurement of modern vessels, and enhancement of navigational channels underscore a holistic approach to safe and efficient travel.
Introducing the MV MA Lisha and implementing the ‘Ferry Pass’ online ticket booking system also represent leaps in service quality and passenger convenience. These strides exemplify the unwavering commitment of the government to propel Guyana toward a future defined by connectivity, prosperity, and inclusivity in keeping with its 2020-2025 manifesto commitments.