Conversation Tree project: Gov’t terminates contract with Kallco

Following prolonged delays, the government has terminated its contract with the Kallco Guyana Inc., the Trinidadian company responsible for the western section of the Conversation Tree Road project.

The Ministry of Public Works reached an agreement with Kallco, ensuring the company settles all outstanding financial obligations related to the project. This includes returning the outstanding balance for incomplete work and covering other liabilities due to prolonged delays that exceeded the contractual timeframe.

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill inspected ongoing works on Tuesday and related that the termination was necessary due to the significant inconvenience caused to residents and the impediment to crucial infrastructural development.

“We have light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to the Conversation Tree project. I want to officially announce that Kallco has been demobilised from the site. They have settled all of their obligations as it relates to their contract with the Government of Guyana,” Minister Edghill said during the inspection.

The government has now appointed Guyanese contractor S. Jagmohan and Sons to complete the remaining works. This company had successfully executed the Eastern section of the project. The new deadline according to Minister Edghill will be before the end of this year.

“We want this to be able to be done quickly. It is going to finish long before Christmas in case you’re thinking if this is going over to next year, not at all. I will hope that we are able to get this done by the end of August. We are pushing, the contractor knows that he has to work day and night and we are getting that done,” the minister said.

Acknowledging the patience and understanding of residents impacted by the delays, Minister Edghill extended heartfelt gratitude to the community for their cooperation and resilience.

In addition to appointing S. Jagmohan and Sons to complete the project, the ministry has engaged nine small contractors to rehabilitate the boulevard along Conversation Tree. Works will include constructing a walkway, installing lighting, and landscaping to improve safety, accessibility, and aesthetics along the thoroughfare, fostering a conducive environment for residents and commuters.

Minister Edghill also outlined plans to extend the road network, linking Conversation Tree Road to Dennis Street and eventually to Vlissengen Road. This strategic expansion aims to enhance connectivity, alleviate traffic congestion, and facilitate easier navigation.