Building roads, linking communities
─ $132M two-lane, all-weather road lauded by Orealla residents
─ project nearing completion
DPI, Guyana, Sunday, July 14, 2019
Residents of Orealla are eagerly awaiting the completion of the two-lane road that will link them to their sister village Siparuta. The Ministry of Public Infrastructure is executing the $132M project.
The road will not only be a link between the two villages but will also be a major economic boost for villages that are home to approximately 1,700 residents. Farming and logging are the main sources of income for the residents.
Resident and former Toshao, David Henry is pleased that the road is finally becoming a reality. “With the machinery that we have seen and work plans, we are sure that it will be an all-weather road. This road will not just link Orealla and Siparuta; it will create a lot of employment, farming, and so forth. People can now reach those difficult areas which had not been possible before to farm.” Henry noted that with the $132M pumped into the current project, the new road, he believes will withstand time.
A farmer, Janice Herman noted that the road is a major development for the villages: “As I was going to my farm, I observed the road and can say it is much wider and is a very good structure.”
Another resident, Thesius Henry described the construction of the road as a ‘positive move’ by the government. “It will not only bridge the gap but encourage other economic activities like transportation and sports. It gives easy access to Orealla for the sports competition. We are a riverine area and it is sometimes unsafe travelling by boat. So, this road is a big move that will contribute greatly in the area of sports.”
Natalie Peneux believes that it will positively impact the students in the area. “Children attending school will now be able to come home on the weekends to be with their families; also, it would be better for the farmers whose farms are far away. The road will now let them bring up their produce by vehicle,” Peneux said.
The Ministry of Public Infrastructure continues to ensure that roads are constructed countrywide, providing improved accessibility for all Guyanese. The construction of roads continues in areas that have never seen all-weather roads before. Regions1, 7, 8, and 9 are a testament to this fact.