Progress on the new bridge across the Demerara River is advancing, with completion now at approximately 70%.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill provided this update during a media briefing, confirming that around $150 million has already been spent on the $260 million project.
Despite some shipping delays, he assured that the March 31 deadline is still attainable.
Minister Edghill emphasized the tangible progress being made, stating that the final major shipment of components, specifically the cable stage materials, is expected to arrive in mid-October.
Safety measures have also been a focus, with Project Manager Patrick Thompson outlining the bridge’s design features to mitigate collision risks.
The main supporting piles will include collision protection mechanisms, and the bridge is engineered to accommodate large vessels, providing a clearance of 50 meters and a width of 300 meters to enhance safety during transit.
In addition, Edghill noted that contracts for the connecting roads are in the advanced procurement stage, with plans for the road on the east side to connect to Heroes Highway.
Once completed, the new Demerara River Bridge will span 2.8 kilometers and is being constructed by China Railway Construction, with oversight from the Italian firm Politecnica.
Delicia Janneire for NCN News.