The People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and its coalition partner A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) have unveiled an infrastructure plan aimed at transforming Guyana’s road network. This announcement was made during a press conference led by Shurwayne Holder and Elson Lowe, where the party also criticised the government’s handling of the gas-to-energy project.
In a bid to address what they described as inefficiencies and corruption in current infrastructure spending, the PNCR/APNU detailed their vision for an overhaul. The party’s plan emphasises both inter-town and coast-to-hinterland road networks, promising improvements that will focus on productivity, livability, and sustainability.
Holder outlined that the PNCR/APNU intends to focus infrastructure efforts on achieving specific economic and social goals, including energy security, agriculture, community development, eco-tourism, and climate resilience. The plan includes the development of paved roads linking key towns such as Linden and New Amsterdam, Linden and Lethem, Linden and Mahdia, and Mahdia and Bartica. Additionally, a new highway between New Amsterdam and Linden will address the current lack of direct road connection between these major towns.
The coast-to-hinterland network will see the development or upgrading of routes connecting Bartica to the Upper Mazaruni, and the Essequibo Coast to the middle Cuyuni and the North West District. These projects are expected to involve several new bridges over the Essequibo River, according to the plan.
Holder emphasised that all projects will proceed only after comprehensive feasibility studies, impact assessments, and public consultations.
Meanwhile, Lowe criticised the government’s management of the Wales Gas-to-Energy Plant, highlighting ongoing issues with soil remediation at the site. Lowe pointed out that despite previous assurances the foundation for the plant was yet to be laid due to unresolved soil deficiencies.
The opposition party expressed concerns about the suitability of the Wales site for industrial development, questioning whether it was a viable location given the extensive soil remediation required. They challenged the government to release any existing soil assessments for public scrutiny and provide a realistic timeline for the project’s completion.
Lowe also criticised the government’s handling of the arbitration process related to the project, urging them to ensure proper legal preparation to avoid potential financial losses. He called for transparency regarding agreements with ExxonMobil and expressed concern that the project could face significant challenges if the current administration’s handling was not addressed.
