By Nakasia Logan
Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, has declared that the Joint Venture (J.V.) China Railway Construction Corporation (International), the contractor overseeing the New Demerara Harbour Bridge project, will be held accountable for the recent damage inflicted upon the anchor block of the existing Demerara Harbour Bridge.
In a statement provided to NCN News via telephone, Minister Edghill disclosed that an initial assessment conducted by divers estimated the damage to the Anchor Blocks of the Demerara Harbour Bridge to amount to millions of dollars.
Minister Juan Edghill said “The technical team has thoroughly inspected the bridge, and based on their findings, an approximate cost has been determined. We are now in discussions with the contractor of the new bridge regarding a settlement plan. They will undoubtedly be held responsible for their actions.”
Despite the incident, Minister Edghill reassured the public that traffic flow and the bridge’s schedule for retraction remain unaffected.
“While repairs are necessary, they will be conducted in a manner that does not disrupt traffic flow. The safety and convenience of commuters remain our top priority,” he noted.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening when a tug and barge, reportedly stationed at the construction site of the New Demerara River Bridge, collided with the existing Harbour Bridge.
Efforts have since been made to remove the tug and barge from the impacted area.
“A tug and barge, identified as Omni Tone 1 and engaged in the construction activities of the New Demerara Harbour Bridge, drifted off course and made contact with four buoys and two pontoons, specifically at spans 12 and 13 of the existing Demerara Harbour Bridge,” the Minister explained.
Expressing regret over the incident, Minister Edghill emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation, which will be conducted with support from the Maritime Administration Department.
The Demerara Harbour Bridge remains a critical transportation link for the region, facilitating the movement of both vehicular and marine traffic.
Any damage to its structure necessitates swift action to ensure its continued functionality and safety.