Construction of the bauxite Centennial Arch in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) continues to take shape with the foundation work already completed and the erection of the arch currently underway.
The management of privately-owned Linden-based bauxite company, Bosai Minerals Group Guyana Incorporated (BMGGI), is constructing the overhead arch at Casaurina Drive, Mackenzie, at the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) junction.
The erection of the arch, which is being constructed at a cost of over $20 million, commenced on Tuesday following the completion of its foundation work.
Workers at the construction site on Tuesday
BMGGI General Manager (ag) Eric Yu, in his remarks at the launch of the centennial of bauxite mining observances in August, had outlined plans to commemorate the community’s significant milestone, with the setting up of the arch.
Chairman of the Bauxite Century Board, Horace James, recently noted that the Committee had made a decision to have the arch situated at the closest point where Mackenzie, Wismar and Watooka meet, since those areas have close ties with the history of bauxite in Linden. He added that it would not only be a structure for vehicles to drive under, but a symbol which depicts the history of Linden.
The arch is expected to be unveiled on November 21 at an opening ceremony. James said it will consist of an emblem of all the bauxite companies in Guyana. Since the arch will be located at a strategic point on one of the main thoroughfares, traffic diversions continue to be carried out occasionally to facilitate the construction process until its completion. Motorists are being urged to take caution at the location and to take heed of the notices for detour through the Watooka and Fair’s Rust bypass.
In keeping with the approved relevant traffic safety requirements, the company has posted signs to effectively guide the flow of traffic. A full road closure was put into effect on Tuesday, to facilitate the erection of the arch. (Utamu Belle)
