Victory Valley contracts: Roads, foot paths, desilting of drains 90% completed

In early December, Government through the Public Works Ministry had awarded nine contracts for the construction of roads and foot paths, and to desilt drains in the community of Victory Valley, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).
This was in keeping with a commitment made by President Dr Irfaan Ali, during a visit to the community, where immediate intervention was called for.
On Thursday, the Ministry informed that some of these projects have reached a significant 90 per cent completion. In awarding those contracts, Government sought to create employment for residents, especially the young people of Victory Valley.

The projects would have included the construction of six concrete footpaths and three concrete drains, totalling $50 million. Another $34 million was invested to construct and rehabilitate the Block 22 Wismar bridge. This project went to public tender and was awarded to the most competitive bidder.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill had told residents, “These contracts are being executed under the Procurement Act in a category that is called community engagement. This is not just something we’re doing here in the Valley. We’re doing this in various parts of the country.”
“It is not just about getting the work done. It is about getting people meaningfully employed and meaningfully engaged. The truth about it is all the workers who will be working on these contracts should really be people from this area.”
The Public Works Ministry was allotted the largest portion of the Government’s $552.9 billion budget this year. Over $96 billion was set aside for development of infrastructure across the country.
From the sum, a total of $88 billion was allocated for capital expenses, encompassing several major projects. Another $76 billion was to be used for roads and bridges. (G12)