Pedestrian overpasses vandalized, some parts stolen

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure has reported that some components of two pedestrian overpasses on the East Bank of Demerara were damaged and some parts were stolen.

Investigations found that the elevator glass door was smashed at the Providence overpass, while electrical and solar panel lights were stolen. The elevator was awaiting commissioning before it is used.

Meanwhile, at the Diamond overpass, the electrical wire was disconnected from the camera systems; the “No Cycle” and “Disable” signs were stolen; the corrugated electrical wire cover was removed, and earthing connection vandalized and protective cover stolen.

During the construction of the overpasses, security cameras and other measures were put in place to nab perpetrators.

Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson during an interview with reporters in October 2018, said: “We will have some security features, cameras and those things involved so hopefully anybody who does any vandalism will be caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

The overpasses were constructed to keep ensure pedestrians can cross the road safely.

The Public Infrastructure Ministry has in the past complained about the vandalism of its traffic lights, resulting in millions of dollars in losses.

A US$364,000 contract was awarded for the pedestrian overpass at Diamond and a US$1M contract for those at Houston, Peter’s Hall at Providence.