Residents, stakeholders consulted on Mahaica to Abary four-lane road upgrade

The Ministry of Public Works on Friday hosted a stakeholder engagement and consultation meeting at the Mahaicony Technical and Vocational Training Centre to discuss the design for the Mahaica to Abary four-lane road upgrade project.

The team, led by Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill, briefed residents, business owners, religious community leaders, motorists, and other stakeholders along the alignment on the overview of the project, its design, and the proposed work. Environmental and social concerns, as well as grievance redress mechanisms, were among the topics discussed.

The earmarked four-lane highway, which has an expected 20-year lifespan, will be divided into three lots. Initial works will be executed in Lots 1 and 2, which entail rehabilitative works. The upgraded thoroughfare will feature widened lanes with a median, light fixtures, raised crosswalk, crossing signage for pedestrians and animals (cattle) rumble strip, and junction improvements.

Minister Edghill told the meeting that the initial consultation focuses on briefing the beneficiaries on the development intentions until a contractor is identified. He noted that when a contractor is engaged, the team will return to present traffic management plans, as the operational aspects will arise once that engagement occurs.

While emphasising that development within the region is crucial, stakeholders raised concerns about potential property or private land acquisition, the drainage system, and the preservation of railway structures that are considered monuments and artefacts. In response, the consultant added that options to keep the structures will be explored, emphasising that these bridge structures will not be discarded.

Minister Edghill added that whatever is done will have to be signed off by the hydrologic engineer at the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA). He reminded those gathered that these concerns have been raised across the country and have been successfully addressed.

“So while there must be some inconvenience, it is for the long-term good, and it will definitely help with the development of your region. I’ve been doing this for some time, so I’m fully aware of what can arise. If, for any reason, in order to get this road completed, we have to use anyone’s private property, you will not be disadvantaged. The constitution provides that you are given fair market compensation,” Minister Edghill said.

This vital project ties into the government’s wider vision of improving and expanding the nation’s transport network. By seamlessly linking communities, reducing travel times, and expanding economic corridors, these countrywide developments are designed to improve the standard of living for all citizens and build a highly competitive, modern economy for the future.