The Public Works Ministry is closely monitoring the stability of the Wismar Bridge, following recent protest that led to damage of both the existing structure and a new US$35 million bridge currently under construction.
During a recent telephone interview with Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, he relayed that the bridge is currently in use and they are monitoring the area.
“The Wismar Bridge is in use and we are carefully monitoring what is happening.”
Meanwhile, when asked by the Minister about any plans by the Ministry to undertake efforts to sensitise residents about the importance of the infrastructure so that a re-occurrence like this cannot happen again, he responded of the great importance that bridge already holds.

“It’s the only crossing site, using speedboats. It’s the only way vehicles can get over to the other side, so you can emphasise the importance of this single-lane bridge that is currently in use until we get the four-lane bridge that is under construction. The residents of Linden and Mackenzie are aware of the importance of this bridge, because they’re the ones who use it every single day,” the Minister said.
The protest by residents sparked after Ronaldo Peters, 21, was shot and killed by a Policeman. During the protest, Keon Fogenay, 32, was shot and he too died while several police were injured by protestors.
Residents on Tuesday last set fire to the existing Wismar/Mackenzie Bridge as well as the new structure under construction.
In an interview with this publication, Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) Jermaine Figueira reminded citizens of the economic potential of their community and urged that they not jeopardise it.
“I understand the state of anger of the community, but equally, we have a duty and responsibility to act within the confines of the law and, more so, not to destroy private and public property—especially infrastructure,” the parliamentarian said.
“I saw the bridge was on fire. Now, that bridge is an important artery for transport within this region… and it serves the community with significant value. If we damage the facility, and if there’s an emergency on the Wismar shore for an ambulance or fire reel, how can they access the bridge if it is burnt down?”