Gov’t to fix several major roads via road network plan

The deteriorating condition of the Linden-Soesdyke Highway will be addressed via Government’s comprehensive road network plan.

This was stated by Minister of Public Works, Hon. Bishop Juan Edghill in a recent interview with the media.

“If we build the Linden to Lethem road and you don’t build the Linden to Soesdyke Highway, it’s like you haven’t done anything. How will you get access to Lethem? So, it’s part of the plan,” Minister Edghill explained.

With acres of lands being used for agriculture purposes along the Linden-Soesdyke Highway, the Minister said the future plans to rehabilitate the road ways is also in keeping with the administration’s agenda to improve economic activity.

Meanwhile, as part of the holistic plans, the Minister highlighted the road stretching from Ogle, East Coast Demerara, to Haags Bosch on the East Bank will later connect to Diamond, East Bank Demerara, then to Timehri.

“Interlinking with that is the highway. Then when you deal with the Linden-Lethem road, we have to be able to get a new alignment from Ituni all the way down to Berbice. In that way, the heavy container trucks don’t need to come down the highway to go to the deep water harbour in Berbice.”

Minister Edghill said while Government is seeking to ensure that all Guyanese have access to proper roads, consideration must also be given to the long-term benefits

He said the new thoroughfares must not only cut travel time; but allow persons to arrive at their destination safely.  

The Minister also highlighted other projects to reduce traffic congestion and enhance road safety. One such project, he pointed out, is the new four-lane, high-span fixed bridge from La Grange to Nandy Park.

Additionally, the Government is also looking at another four-lane road from Schoonard, West Bank Demerara to Parika.

These interventions will open up new housing opportunities and lands for agriculture.