Hinterland roads to be fixed in coming weeks

─ works on the Itabali to Puruni Road shall commence soon

─ government wants to prevent hardship faced by drivers and motorists

DPI, Guyana, Saturday, February 9, 2019

Rehabilitation and construction of the Itabali to Puruni Road should commence within the coming weeks, according to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure.

Responsibility for this specific road falls under the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), however, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure says it recognises the urgency for repairs.

Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, walks along a paved section of the Mahdia Main Road during his visit to the region on Thursday February 7th, 2019.

A paved section of Mahdia’s roadway leading into the mining town.

A section of Mahdia’s roadway from the airstrip.

A section of Mahdia’s roadway from the airstrip.

This notion is being agreed to by Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, who visited Mahdia, Region Eight on February 7. During the visit, the issue of derelict “roads” was raised by miners and other villagers from the Mahdia community.

“We are reminded that come hell or high water, night or day, we do have a responsibility to get them (roads) fixed” declared Minister Trotman.

He said the height of the rainy season is usually the worst period for hinterland roads, adding that the government is working quickly to get them done.

The Natural Resource Minister said he would expect that the very complainers who also use the roads, will assist in ensuring that they are not further damaged.

“Trucks are being overloaded with too much fuel and even when the roads start to go bad, instead of easing back on its use, some truck drivers are proceeding without any regard” … “We have a dual responsibility both the users; the miners, the loggers, as well as the government, to ensure that the roads are kept open.”

According to the minister, the government through the Ministry of Natural Resources will work along with the Road Services Division of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to get the roads ready in a short time.

The Ministry of Ministry of Public Infrastructure via a press release also reiterated its commitment to lending its assistance and working with the GGMC, to have the roadway, especially the Itabali to Puruni Road fixed as a matter of priority.

Felecia Valenzuela.

Images: Ackeem Thomas.