A temporary speed limit will soon be introduced on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway as rehabilitation works on the main carriageway begin.
This move is being undertaken by the Ministry of Public Works along with the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department to ensure maximum safety for drivers and construction workers on site.
“One of the main reasons why this highway is being upgraded is to ensure the safety of people. The highway had become inundated in various sections because of years of use, truck traffic, and wear and tear,” said Public Works Minister Juan Edghill during a site visit today.
He added: “People are accustomed to driving this highway at 100 km/h, and I think that was the speed limit. Construction is taking place right now… you can’t be speeding in the construction zone… because the people working in that zone are at risk, but you are also putting yourself at risk by speeding on a surface that is not completed. The first thing we have to do here is get everybody to calm down and slow down, so we will have to talk to the Traffic Chief and agree on a new speed limit for construction, and we will have to put up those signs in the interest of ensuring compliance.”
The minister further pointed out that this phase of the ongoing work is expected to last six months. The work is being done in sections and will continue until the full rehabilitation of the highway is completed.
In August 2024, a US$161 million contract was signed with Trinidadian firm Namalco Construction Services in joint venture with Guyamerica Construction Inc. to reconstruct the Linden-Soesdyke Highway.
The upgrade project is being funded by a loan from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB). This is the first developmental project in Guyana to receive funding from the IsDB.
