The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs on Monday presented four All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) valued about $9.8 million to communities in regions eight and nine to help them to conduct their affairs.

Permanent Secretary at the ministry Nigel Dharamlall handed over the vehicles to the toshaos of villages Karisparu in Region Eight, Yurongperu and Parabaru and to Community Development Officer (CDO) of North Pakaraimas Region Nine Matheson William to conduct the affairs of the communities.

According to a press release from the Government Information Agency Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai, Toshaos Felix Williams and Ekufa Mawsha respectively of Karisparu and Parabaru and CDO William attended the brief ceremony. Dharamlall said the vehicles will enable the timely arrival of produce to market. It was noted that because of the topography of the communities the ATV is the most suitable type of transport.

Toshao Williams noted that in his community, residents travel by foot and aircraft which are not convenient at all times. He said the ATV will lessen the transportation burden particularly in cases of medical emergencies and in taking goods to market.

Additionally, the CDO said the ATV will help him to expedite his tasks.

He noted that the North Pakaraimas is mountainous and to cover the distance by foot is difficult and as such he is happy for the vehicle.