Several Region Nine roads being upgraded

The Amerindian villages of Nappi, Shulinab, Karaudaunau, and Awarewaunau in Region Nine are undergoing major infrastructural transformation, with their internal roads being upgraded from laterite to asphaltic concrete. 

This development is expected to bring significant benefits to residents. Importantly, it addresses persistent dust issues caused by the existing laterite surfaces. 

In December last year, the PPP/C Government allocated $800 million for these upgrades as part of its broader commitment to improving hinterland infrastructure and enhancing living conditions in remote communities.

A collaborative approach was taken, involving the Toshao, village councils, engineers, and contractors to prioritise the most critical areas for improvement.

According to the Ministry of Public Works on Monday, works in Shulinab Village, South Central Rupununi, are now 50 per cent complete.

The $225.9 million project is being executed by Theodore Faria General Contracting Service. Currently, the laterite is being stabilised in preparation for the Prime Coat.  Three culverts have already been installed. 

The project encountered initial challenges, including the reluctance of residents to relocate their fences that were too close to the roadway and slight realignment changes that needed to be approved by the Village Council.

However, despite these challenges works are progressing on schedule.

Additionally, in the village of Nappi, Central Rupununi, the road works are about 50 per cent completed. Condor Construction Inc. is executing this $149.3 million project, with culverts already delivered and installation underway.

The ministry noted that stabilisation of the roadway is currently progressing ahead of the Prime Coat application.

In the Deep South, $185.2 million is being executed on the roads at Karaudaunau Village. The project, which is 50 per cent completed, is being executed by Beerdat Harrinandan Construction & Transportation.

However, some bridges along the Katoonarib to Karaudar route require major repairs due to heavy mining-related traffic to Marudi Mountain, prompting the creation of temporary bypasses. 

Works in Awarewaunau are at an earlier stage. The $249.3 million project, undertaken by G&M Construction Inc., experienced delays due to a late start. However, surveying has been completed, and materials are now being mobilised.

To ensure transparency and community participation, the ministry’s engineers have delivered unpriced bills of quantities to the various villages, allowing residents to play an active role in the construction of these roads.

The government has earmarked $9 billion for hinterland road developments this year.