By Delicia Janneire
The Ministry of Public Works has made significant advancements in Guyana’s infrastructural development over the past four years, with a focus on constructing new roads and bridges across the country.
According to Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill, these efforts have vastly improved the quality of life for many communities, transitioning from demands for basic road access to concerns over road maintenance, speed bumps, and traffic control.
Since 2020, the ministry’s revitalized Special Projects Unit has completed over 4,000 community roads and numerous hinterland road and bridge repairs.
The Minister emphasized that these developments have been crucial for improving connectivity and access in both urban and rural areas.
To ensure quality and longevity of infrastructure projects, Minister Edghill highlighted the Ministry’s enhanced monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.
Independent and ministry laboratories now rigorously test materials, and peer reviews are conducted on engineering designs to maintain high standards of work.
Looking ahead to 2030, the government has outlined key projects currently in the works, including the Corentyne River Bridge, which will connect Guyana and Suriname, the New Berbice Bridge, and a deep-water harbour designed to accommodate cruise ships.
Other significant projects include the construction of a new wharf in Charity and a major road that will link Region 8 and Region 9 through Karasabai to Monkey Mountain.
Additionally, the highly anticipated New Demerara Harbour Bridge is set for completion by 2025, promising to further ease transportation challenges and enhance economic development.
The Ministry’s continued focus on infrastructure is expected to transform Guyana’s landscape and improve overall connectivity in the years leading up to 2030 and beyond.