New ferry service, government service centre for Bartica

A second ferry service for the Parika-Bartica route and a new government service centre in Bartica will soon be introduced as part of efforts to improve transportation and access to public services in Region Seven, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali announced on Sunday.

The announcements were made during the president’s visit to Karrau Village, where he was accompanied by Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation Zulfikar Ally.

President Ali said the additional vessel is intended to ease longstanding transportation challenges along the Parika-Bartica corridor. The ferry will complement an existing service already operating on the route.

He also announced that the new government service centre in Bartica is expected to become operational within a month, offering residents access to multiple state services in one location.

The facility will provide services including GRA transactions, national identification cards, NIS, immigration, licensing, birth certificates and passports, reducing the need for residents to travel to Georgetown.

“You want a passport, you go there. You want your ID, you go there. Everything will be at Bartica,” President Ali said.
Toshao Shane Cornelius of Karrau Village will head the new government service centre.

The president also highlighted ongoing infrastructure works in Region Seven, including upgrades to Santos Road leading into Bartica, and said assessments are ongoing to determine the best electricity solution for the village.

He described Region Seven as a priority area because of its importance to the mining, forestry and tourism sectors.

President Ali further announced that Karrau Village will soon receive a permanent dentist attached to the Karrau Health Centre. A dental chair has already been purchased and is being installed. (DPI)