East Bank Public Road will close to vehicular traffic April 5-6 for new Demerara Harbour Bridge construction

Traffic Chief, Assistant Commissioner Mahendra Singh has announced road closures on the East Bank Demerara Public Road, set to take place on April 5 and 6, 2025. These closures are necessary to facilitate the construction of the New Demerara Harbour Bridge, which is on track to meet its completion deadline of August 31, 2025.

The closures will affect both motor vehicles and pedestrians for a maximum of 48 hours. Singh explained that the closures are crucial to provide sufficient space for contractors to manoeuvre the bridge across the East Bank Public Road. “We need to provide contractors with sufficient space to manoeuvre the bridge,” Singh stated, highlighting the necessity of this temporary disruption for the project’s progression.

To ensure safety, Singh reassured the public that the police would assist with adequate signage and public information to guide road users during the closure. The Traffic Chief confirmed that a public awareness campaign would begin immediately, with daily updates on road conditions to help drivers plan their routes effectively.

Assistant Superintendent Michael Ramdass from Regional Division 4B provided further details on the diversion routes. Reflective signs will be in place for night-time visibility, and road users are advised to remain vigilant. Detour routes for drivers include:

• Southbound traffic on the East Bank Public Road will be redirected north onto Bagostown Public Road, then to Dumpsite Road, and onto Windsor Estates.
• Drivers heading to the Demerara Harbour Bridge from Georgetown will still have access, but those travelling beyond the bridge are encouraged to use Hero’s Highway or the newly developed Gafoors Road at Little Houston.
• Passengers travelling to and from Cheddi Jagan International Airport are advised to use Hero’s Highway to avoid congestion.

Additionally, for northbound traffic on the East Bank Public Road wishing to access the West Bank, multiple diversions are available starting at Craig, the traffic light by Diamond Housing Scheme, or Little Diamond near the glass building. Drivers can then switch to the four-lane access road or use Mocha Road, Greenfield Road, or Red Road. However, access beyond Red Road will be restricted, with only the Providence Access Road leading to the Princess Hotel remaining open.

The Traffic Chief urged all road users to follow the posted signs and directions from traffic officers to ensure a smooth flow of traffic and reduce delays.