Dear Editor,
I am aware of four main bridges in the Anna Regina area on the Essequibo Coast that are currently without rails. It is quite unsafe for the numerous drivers and pedestrians, including the elderly and children, who use the bridges daily. The threat becomes even more real in the evening, especially when the fluctuating water which is often filled with weeds, rises to the level of the bridges. At such times it is often difficult to see their exact width, and this has led to vehicular accidents in the past. It was even suggested that the absence of such rails may have contributed to the death of a resident recently, who drowned in one of the connecting trenches.
Two of the bridges are situated in Anna Regina ‒ one next to the car park and the historical ‘high bridge,’ and the other at the western end of the town leading to the Caricom Rice Mills Factory. The other two are located in the neighbouring village of Cotton Field, with one of them connecting with the main road and the other to the old road leading to the western end of the village. This bridge once had rails, but they have now collapsed. It is perhaps the only bridge on the Essequibo Coast as well that quickly transforms itself into a pool whenever the rain falls, because of its unevenness and lack of maintenance.
I am therefore appealing to the relevant authorities to remedy this seemingly unnoticed situation and minimise the danger that these bridges without rails pose to the general public. It is obvious given the strategic location of these two settlements that the route between them is very busy, in addition to which there has been a steep increase in vehicular traffic. Therefore every precaution should be taken to ensure the safety of citizens.
Yours faithfully,
Elroy Stephney
