Upgrading hinterland aerodromes, roads paramount on Govt’s agenda – Min Edghill

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill has committed to upgrading aerodromes and road networks within the vast hinterland region, in enabling safer travel for the public.

He told reporters on Monday that the Government has placed this issue high on its developmental strategy for the country.
“The Irfaan Ali-led Administration, we are very sure about what we want. We are sure about improving access to the interior…We have to improve our aerodromes so that those who are using aircraft could have a safe and comfortable experience for both landing and take-off…We have to put in place, the road infrastructure. In all of our hinterland towns, we are advancing the road infrastructure,” Edghill expressed.
He pointed out that significant work has already been carried out in Mahdia, Moruca, Mabaruma and Port Kaituma in relation to improved road networks.
A few days ago, President Irfaan Ali outlined that his Government will be investing in more permanent road infrastructure for the hinterland, particularly mining areas, in order to protect the safe movement of goods and services in the country’s most remote communities.

He said the Government has recognised the need for proper road infrastructure in the hinterland and therefore, is developing a medium and long-term solution to the issue.
Mining is a major contributor to the country’s GDP and therefore, President Ali emphasised that it is important that the necessary infrastructure, particularly roads, are in place to support the industry.
An example, Region Seven is one of the largest regions in Guyana with over 21 communities which are mostly accessible by air and river transport. President Ali said that the Government is developing a plan that will see the region becoming a service hub for the mining sector.
The hinterland road link that connects Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) is also underway and when completed, will alleviate the high cost of transportation.
The 72-mile hinterland road link starts at Meritizero North, Rupununi in Region Nine, and will connect Region Eight at Monkey Mountain.
The construction of the road link which began more than 10 years ago will cost $600 million. But after the APNU/AFC took office, that project was allegedly halted.
Connectivity to major hinterland communities from Georgetown, as well as between Guyana and Brazil will also be made easier with the construction of the Linden to Mabura Hill road.
The US$190 million contract was signed in May with Brazilian company Construtora Queiroz Galvao S.A. for the construction of the 121-kilometre road.
Guyana has aerodromes located in places such as Wichabai, Aishalton, Paruima, Paramakatoi, Port Kaituma, Orinduik, Matthew’s Ridge, Manari, Monkey Mountain, Mahdia, Mabaruma, Lethem, Kwakwani, Kato, Karasabai, Kamarang, Imbaimadai, Ebini, Bartica and Apoteri among others.