Construction of the paved US$190 million Linden to Mabura Road has started and foundational works are progressing.
During a recent visit to the site by this newspaper, it was observed that works have started from Linden and stretches beyond a mile.
The contractor, Constructora Queiroz S.A, which has set up an office in Wismar, Linden and is currently advertising for persons to fill vacancies for labourers and skilled workers.
In addition, machinery has also been deployed along the stretch of the road where foundational works are being undertaken.
It is expected that the road, which is being done in phases, will open up massive business opportunities with Brazil when fully paved all the way to Lethem.
The sod for the construction of the road was turned in May after a contract was awarded to Constructora Queiroz S.A.
The road is being funded by the Government of Guyana, the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the United Kingdom, at a total cost of US$190 million.
A release from government had said that the Linden to Mabura Road forms part of Government’s transport infrastructure integrated development plan, which includes a new high span bridge across the Demerara River and the bridge across the Corentyne River linking Guyana and Suriname. The development of this all-weather road will also bolster trade and commerce to unlock the vast opportunities in linking Guyana with Brazil.
In February last, the CDB issued its no objection for negotiations to commence with the most responsive bidder, Con-strutora Queiroz Galvao S.A., from Brazil, which was awarded the contract for the upgrading of the road. This project is the first link of the highway between Linden and Lethem and is the first segment of the approximately 450 kilometres thoroughfare.
The project comprises a US$112-million loan from the CDB, a grant of £50 million (US$66 million) from the Government of the United Kingdom via the CDB-administered United Kingdom Carib-bean Infrastructure Fund, along with US$12 million provided by the Guyana Government. It is also the largest single project ever financed by the CDB.
The road will be 121 kilometres long with a 7.2 metres wide carriageway. It will include a cycle and pedestrian lane measuring 2 metres wide, along with 10 bus stops outfitted with ramps for persons with disabilities. A number of bridges and culverts will be replaced. Some 123 lights will also be installed.
