Housing Min declares development priorities for Linden secure

Region Ten is set to benefit from the same rate of development as the rest of Guyana, as it is government’s plan to ensure that all Guyanese have fair and equitable access to a better standard of living.

This was the declaration made by Housing and Water Minister, Colin Croal, during remarks in the mining town of Linden on Wednesday evening, as Guyana celebrated its 56^th Independence anniversary with a flag raising ceremony there. He reminded residents that Guyana attained independence from Great Britain on May 26, 1966. Minister Croal, noted that Region Ten is set to benefit from a number of initiatives particularly with the provision of hundreds of part-time jobs, robust infrastructure and 1,000 move-in-ready homes and house-lots being delivered to the region.

Croal stressed, that celebrations like the flag raising ceremony are fitting times to reminisce on how far Guyana has come over the years, and all that is in store for the country. The minister said that to demonstrate the seriousness of the administration’s commitment to the Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice region, the government, in less than two years in office, has signed a historic contract for the construction of the USD $190M Linden to Mabura Hill Road. “The investment and employment opportunities that will rebound to Linden is not lost on your government. The Linden to Mabura Hill project is a gift to this community. It can turn your fortunes around through job creation, entrepreneurship and trade,” Croal explained.

The minister reminded residents that during recent visits by Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, Lindeners were assured that the government is committed to giving every citizen access to Guyana’s oil wealth through improved health care and better education. This development drive, he said has birthed negotiations with the Inter-American Development Bank to upgrade the Linden hospital; and with the Islamic Development Bank for a $120M project. He said upon approval, they will see the massive improvement of the Soesdyke-Linden Highway before the end of this year through resurfacing works.

Croal reiterated that the region is headed to increased prosperity, which is earmarked to impact every home and life in Linden, and its surrounding areas. Community roads, in places like Industrial Area, Kara Kara, Amelia’s Ward, Silver City and Block 22 will all receive $600M worth of upgrades. He said that other key investments and developments in Linden that are providing jobs and upward mobility for Lindeners include the establishment of the Midas BPO Guyana – Kara Kara Call Centre, a water treatment plant, 800 new temporary jobs and 250 small business grants, as well as the establishment of the region’s first office by the Ministry of Labour.

Housing development drive

Placing the spotlight on the administration’s efforts to distribute sustainable housing solutions for the township, Croal told residents that some 600 acres of land were recently acquired by government which will see an additional 2,000 house-lots being delivered to residents. “In keeping with the vision of His Excellency for Linden which includes the construction of 1,000 housing units to young professionals of all income brackets, we have already started with the allocation and the handing over of 18 young professionals houses for doctors, teachers, and other public servants,” he said.

The minister disclosed that regarding unregulated housing in Amelia’s Ward on the outskirts of the township, he reiterated his Ministry has engaged the community in multiple consultations. Croal made clear that the regularisation of the specific area in the community will be executed in conformity with the norms of government. “We will continue to find solutions for the housing needs for the people of Linden, as well as to work with the people of Linden and resolve their issues,” he said.

The Minister committed that residents of Amelia’s Ward will benefit from upgraded roads and street lights. This, he said forms part of a package of infrastructure development works government has put together for the community. He signaled that all of the contracts for these projects have been signed, and land preparation is underway at the various project sites. “More than $751M has been designated for building and infrastructure development work in Linden in 2022 to bolster our efforts towards development in the region,” he said.

Croal stressed that to further demonstrate the administration’s commitment to the township, heal told Lindeners that the whopping 400 house lot allocated since 2020, much more than the 300 lots distributed by the former administration over a five-year period.

Beware of mischievous actors

Minister Croal reminded residents to resist attempts by local political actors who seek to cast doubt on the upward development trajectory of the township. He said a few persons in question made failed attempts during the minister’s remarks to derail the reigning in of the nation’s independence anniversary.In response, Croal said, “we have your interest at heart. Do not allow your leaders to stymie development.”

The minister’s comments were directed to the relocation of persons from key public accesses that are slated for infrastructural upgrades. “The only persons who will be interfered with are those who are on the alignment for the road construction because for you to have infrastructure work and development done for the community of Amelia’s Ward, it includes road networking.”

Minister Croal revealed the government’s current and future projects within the township is a demonstration of the administration’s efforts to solidify Linden as a hub for economic activities to transform the lives of residents. It was noted that following a march pass by the disciplined forces, the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted just outside the region’s Regional Democratic Council’s (RDC) office.

Guyana attained Independence from British colonial rule on May 26, 1966.