February 22, 2025
Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has called for stricter protocols in infrastructure projects following the recent collapse of concrete utility poles along Homestretch Avenue and delays in ongoing road construction.
Dr. Jagdeo raised concerns about the installation practices of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), noting that the fallen concrete poles lacked a proper base.
Previously, GPL’s installation protocol required poles to be placed at a depth of 10% of their height plus two feet, but it did not include a concrete encasement.
In response to the collapse, authorities have now revised the protocol to incorporate a concrete encasement for added stability.
Turning his attention to road infrastructure, the Vice President criticized the slow progress of the road expansion project from the National Stadium to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.
He attributed delays to poor project management, citing inadequate drainage work and significant traffic disruptions.
While acknowledging that some level of inconvenience is expected during major construction projects, Jagdeo stressed the need for improved coordination to minimize public inconvenience and ensure timely completion of critical infrastructure developments.