Minister within the Ministry of Finance Juan Edghill says the $400M Black Bush Polder road has been completed but minor works are still to be done, after checking on the progress of this and several other projects during a recent outreach exercise to Berbice. ”
The project entailed the construction of 36 kilometres of all-weather asphalt roads, which contractor BK International said was finished. According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) press release, two bridges which will be built under the project are 85% complete and signs will now be painted on the roadway, during the one-year defects liability period.
During a programme on NCN, Edghill had described the projects he inspected as a means of delivering goods and services to the people of Berbice.
“Today we inspected an important project at Lot 6 A, Berbice where a sluice is being constructed…..this venture is to ensure that flooding becomes a thing of the past in the Region, especially Black Bush Polder,” he said.
Referring to this $400M investment, Edghill said value must be given for money at all times and government intends to crack down on delinquent contractors. “What we have found is that contractors take a relaxed approach and I am making it very clear, that this will not be tolerated…contractors who are found guilty of such act will be dealt with severely in accordance with the law,’ he said.
On the issue of farmers damaging roadways, the minister said that mechanisms will be put in place to weigh trucks transporting produce to ensure that they adhere to the required tonnage. “As part of road maintenance programme, government has already acquired scales, because we want to ensure that when we build roads that they are not damaged because of improper use,” he said.
According to GINA, the Black Bush Polder road was built to withstand 32 tonnes; however, farmers have not been adhering to the rules implemented. In the light of this government will be working closely with the NDCs, Farmers’ Association, Water Users’ Associations and other groups to determine what methods can be implemented to remedy the situation.
“Providing services to residents on East and West Canje are ongoing. Street lights are also in place while there are minor works still to be done… We want to assure the public that government is open to views and ideas on development countrywide,” Edghill said.
