Vehicular traffic to several parts of the hinterland has been cut off after culverts along the Linden to Lethem trail were washed away in torrential rains on Friday.
A source told Sunday Stabroek that heavy rains caused a stream at Mile 42, located along the Linden to Lethem road, to overflow, washing away five culverts in the process.
A statement by the Ministry of Public Works (MoPW) said that the high volume and pressure of the water overwhelmed the multiple lower level culverts and then started overtopping the roadway, eventually taking the entire section with it.
This has resulted in vehicles stranded on both ends of the road. However, passengers are being shuttled across the stream by boat to continue their journeys.
Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill, in brief comments, told Sunday Stabroek that engineers have already conducted assessments and will be conducting emergency repairs so that traffic can reopen in the shortest possible time.
“People have been crossing from one site to another by way of a boat but we still have to be able to get vehicles moving because we still have to get fuel and others thing across. We understand the urgency,” he said.
No definite timeline was given as to when the culverts would be replaced. However, the ministry said that four contractors were engaged for provision of emergency works and they have opted to go with Mekdeci Mining Company to replace the culverts.
Mobilisation of materials and equipment is already in progress, it added.
