Reg. 10 infrastructure works underway
─ Wismar bridge to be constructed
─ Linden-Mabura road to go to tender in September
─ Kwakwani solar farm contract already out
─ Kurupakari bridge to replace ancient pontoon crossing
DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, April 30, 2019
Scores of residents turned out at a community engagement led by Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson at the Christianburg Community Ground, Linden. At the high-spirited meeting, Minister Patterson outlined transformative projects that are in the pipeline for the region.
The Coalition Government has secured funding from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) to build a new bridge in Wismar. This will replace the aged single-lane bridge that formerly functioned as a train track during the industrial boom in Linden. Currently, a contract to design the Wismar bridge has been signed and plans to construct the bridge are moving full steam ahead.
With respect to roads works, the Infrastructure Minister noted the tender for the Linden to Mabura road will commence in September. This road is set to be a major asset to the aforementioned areas. Meanwhile, Minister Patterson stated that the Linden-Soesdyke Highway is set to be upgraded. These works will be followed by the installation of lights to the electricity grid along with solar lights in the densely populated portions along the highway.
Additionally, the community of Kwakwani is set to be transformed by the establishment of a solar farm to boost its electricity grid. Minister Patterson said the contract to build the photovoltaic farm is already advertised, with funding accessed from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
According to Minister Patterson, plans are also along the way to benefit the Kurupakari community. For decades, commuters would cross the Essequibo to access remaining portions of the Linden-Lethem trail via pontoons. This ancient mode of transportation will cease with a modernised bridge that is destined to improve the link between the coast and the hinterland. The project is in keeping with the Coalition Government’s continued commitment towards reducing the inequalities that exist between the coast and the hinterland.
Meanwhile, newly assigned Minister of Business, Haimraj Rajkumar, in his remarks to Lindeners emphasised the Coalition Government’s steadfast commitment to their communities.
“We will not turn our backs on you”, said Minister Rajkumar.
Shaquille Bourne.
Images: Keno George.