Emergency repairs to structural damage on the Stanleytown Bridge, West Bank Demerara have begun with a temporary solution projected by this afternoon.
This update came from Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, who yesterday, led efforts to restore the bridge’s structural integrity to ensure commuter safety and convenience, a release from his ministry said.
Heavy-duty trucks have undermined the bridge, the latest in a series on East Demerara and West Demerara.
As a precaution, trucks and other heavy vehicles are temporarily restricted from using the bridge.
Meanwhile, the Department of Public Information (DPI) said that the minister highlighted that the bridge plays a critical role in facilitating connectivity for commuters moving between Canals No. 2 Polder and the Wales/Patentia area, as well as those heading north towards Vreed-en-Hoop or Georgetown.
Thus, he noted, “Every effort is being made to accomplish the safe passage of vehicles of every class within a 36-hour period.”
Works are ongoing to relocate utility lines, with GPL wires and GWI pipelines being repositioned.
Truckloads of stone and crusher run have been delivered to prepare the approach for a temporary steel bridge, DPI added.
Additionally, unauthorised structures on the government’s reserve have been demolished and machinery has been moved to facilitate construction.
Edghill warned that building on government reserves can lead to significant disruptions, potential risks, and consequences, especially for those who are establishing these structures.
The temporary solution involves a multi-sector team approach comprising Politecnica, China Railway Construction Corporation Limited, GAICO, E.C. Vieira Investments, SH Advance, Amazon Supply Construction and Services, NDIA, and local government officials.
Teams from Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Guyana Power and Light (GPL), and the ministry’s Sea Defence Department are also actively involved.
While light traffic is currently allowed on the bridge, engineers have restricted access to heavily laden vehicles.
The minister advised drivers to exercise caution as works progress on the bridge.
