Maria’s Delight bridge needs repairs

BY: INDRAWATTIE NATRAM

Despite several reports made to the Region Two Administration about a growing gap in the centre of the Maria’s Delight bridge in Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam) nothing has been done to seal the widening crack, leaving road users who traverse the bridge at risk, especially cyclists.

Drivers and motorcyclists have vented their concerns over the widening gap.
According to a driver, when the “crease” in the bridge was very little he had reported the issue but nothing was done. That crease has now expanded and if the bridge is not given the attention it requires it may eventually fall apart, the concerned resident related.
A People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) executive Francis Darchville had also reported the gap in the bridge. Darchville said it’s very heart wrenching to see how huge the crack has become and he is of the opinion it could have be sealed earlier. Darchville said several motorcyclists had also reported to him about the constraints they face when using the bridge.
When contacted Region Two Chairman Devanand Ramdatt explained that on numerous occasions, the issue was raised and he even made representation for the crack to be sealed. Ramdatt said the issue is currently before the Regional Democratic Council (RDC).
On 25 May 2016, the issue was also raised with the Public Infrastructure Minister, but no improvement works have commenced to date. At the last RDC statutory meeting for June, the issue was again raised by a PPP\C Councillor and in response, the Regional Executive Officer Rupert Hopkinson informed that the Region does not have the resources to fix the bridge.
Hopkinson said the bridge requires Central Government’s intervention since the Region does not have the necessary machinery to conduct the remedial work.
The Region Two chairman also raised issues concerning the sinking of the approaches to several bridges along the public road, filling of potholes, clearing of road shoulders, noticeable sinking of the road in some areas, and stray animals.
Ramdatt said the RDC is of the strong view that the Ministry of Public Infrastructure has an integral role to play in addressing the dangers posed by the Maria’s Delight bridge, several sinking bridges, potholes, as well as the installation and maintenance of street lights.
In light of the problems identified, the Regional Chairman said he is urging road users, both pedestrians and motorists to exercise care when using the public roadways.