Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge safe for public use, says Edghill

Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill

The Ministry of Public Works on Monday said the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge is structurally safe, following public concerns over pavement undulations observed on sections of the bridge.

In a statement, the ministry said continuous monitoring of settlement observation points showed no abnormal movement in the bridge’s foundations, confirming that the structure remains stable and fully reliable for public use.

The ministry said technical assessments determined that the undulations observed on a side span of the main bridge were caused by localised surface flatness variations in the asphalt pavement, and do not affect the bridge’s structural integrity or load-bearing capacity.

Pavement irregularities near the east approach bridge abutment were attributed to differences in settlement behaviour between the road embankment fill and the concrete abutment structure, the statement said. The condition has resulted in a temporary elevation difference in the transition zone.

The contractor has been instructed to carry out remedial works to restore a smooth driving surface, the ministry added.

The Ministry of Public Works said it will continue to monitor and maintain the bridge to ensure public safety and travel comfort.