Public Works Minister Juan Edghill recently interacted with residents and farmers along the East Coast Railway Embankment to discuss the ongoing infrastructural development, particularly the expansion of the embankment road into a four-lane highway.
The engagement aimed to address concerns, dispel misinformation, and ensure a smooth transition for affected individuals.
As part of the expansion project, Minister Edghill reassured residents that they would not be displaced without consideration.
Instead, viable solutions were explored for those who might need to relocate, and support mechanisms were discussed for farmers whose lands would be impacted.
To facilitate fair compensation, engineers and technical officers from the ministry measured properties and assessed potential encroachments on government reserves.
In a significant move to support affected farmers, Minister Edghill announced that the National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI) would be engaged to inspect and assess the cost of their crops for compensation.
This measure aims to mitigate the impact of the infrastructure development on the livelihoods of local farmers.
The four-lane highway, with a projected cost of 184 million US dollars, will span from Sheriff Street to Mahaica on the East Coast Demerara.
This infrastructure project is part of the government’s broader efforts to address growing traffic congestion along the East Coast.
Minister Edghill emphasized the importance of open communication and collaboration in ensuring a successful and inclusive development process.
The government’s commitment to fair compensation, legal considerations, and support for affected residents and farmers underscores its dedication to responsible and sustainable infrastructure development.