US$190M Linden-to-Mabura Road will pave way to further explore, develop hinterland– Govt

… will also play pivotal role in enhancing tourism

With the current US$190 million Linden to Mabura Road currently under construction, the value of the project was on Tuesday reinforced by the Natural Resources Ministry, which noted the crucial role it will play in further exploring and developing the hinterland.
In a statement, the Ministry noted that the road will usher in dramatic improvement in transport and logistics when it comes to the hinterland. Considering the fact that most of Guyana’s pre-oil natural resources are located in the hinterland, this will be a massive boost to Guyana’s economy.
“One of the primary advantages of this road is the drastic improvement it offers to logistics in the hinterland. Transporting goods and resources between Linden and Mabura continues to be a laborious and costly process. With the road’s completion, it will allow for the efficient movement of goods, making it easier for businesses to operate, reducing transportation costs and promoting economic growth in the hinterland region,” the Ministry said.

“Further to this, the improved logistics will also facilitate the exploration and development of our natural resources in the hinterland. The availability of a reliable transportation corridor enhances the accessibility of mining and forestry operations, contributing to increased economic opportunities in these industries while ensuring sustainable resource management practices.”
There is also the tourism aspect of the road. The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has ambitious plans to leverage Guyana’s oil and gas status on the world stage into tangible gains for the tourism sector. Not only will the Linden to Mabura Road play a key role in this, but it will also connect communities.
“The road also plays a pivotal role in enhancing tourism in the region. Guyana’s unique hinterland biodiversity can now be more easily explored by tourists and researchers, providing a potential boost to ecotourism and supporting the preservation of our rich natural heritage. Beyond its economic significance, the Linden to Mabura Road significantly impacts the lives of residents and other commuters.
“The road provides crucial connectivity to communities that were previously isolated, fostering social integration and improving access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and other public amenities. Access to these services can lead to a better quality of life and increased opportunities for education and skill development,” the Ministry further said.
There is also the increased safety and security within the hinterland that the road will bring, as it will allow for quicker response times in emergencies and facilitate the movement of law enforcement personnel and emergency services. This will translate to safer communities for residents and visitors alike.
“It is for the foregoing benefits, amongst others, that the Ministry reaffirms its conviction that the Linden to Mabura Road project is a vital and beneficial project. The Government remains committed to furthering infrastructure projects that promote sustainable growth and development across our nation,” the Ministry added.
Traversing sections of the Linden to Lethem Road has been a nightmare for heavily laden lorries, with many toppling off the roadway. The bridges are even worse. Some vehicle operators would have to align the boards before attempting to cross. They do not always make it over safely.
The US$190 million contract for the road was signed in May 2022 with Brazilian company Construtora Queiroz Galvao SA for the construction of the 121-kilometre road. The project is being funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) via a US$112 million loan, a grant to the tune of £50 million (US$66 million) from the United Kingdom under the Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (CIPF), and an input of US$12 million from the Guyana Government.
This is the largest grant Guyana has ever received from the Government of the UK.
With a 7.2-meter-wide carriageway, the Linden-to-Mabura Road is expected to feature a cycle and pedestrian lane measuring 2 metres wide, along with 10 bus stops outfitted with ramps for persons with disabilities. Additionally, a number of bridges and culverts along the way will be replaced, and some 123 lights would be installed. In its commitment to this project, the Dr Irfaan Ali-led Administration had set aside some $3.19 billion in the 2022 budget for the construction of 32 bridges between Kurupukari and Lethem along the Linden-to-Lethem trail.
This leg of the project is expected to last for three years. However, according to the contractual agreement, some 10 kilometres of the road should be completed by September this year.