Gov’t, police joining forces to ensure smooth travelling on new Demerara River Bridge

Hours after commuters started using the new Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge in their numbers, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill said several measures are being implemented to guarantee the smooth flow of traffic.

Minister Edghill acknowledged there was significant congestion on Monday at the western approach of the bridge but said this issue was resolved the same day with two lanes.

Given the work still needed on the western approach of the bridge, the minister said persons will be working around the clock to complete it.

“We’re asking for responsible behavior. The approach road to the old Demerara River Bridge, at the northern carriageway, will be improved to connect to the new bridge as a result over the next several days, the Chinese contractor will be working day and night to complete that lane,” the minister said.

He said it will be 1.5 meters higher than the old road was, therefore persons must follow the guidance of the roundabout, get onto the bridge and discharge while using the roundabout in a ‘safe way’.

Safety was emphasised by the minister as he noted that persons are not following the international standardised signage. He pleaded with motorists to abide by this and practice safe driving.

Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh spoke on road management efforts also pleading with commuters to do the right thing. Importantly, he said traffic ranks will be present and prepared to enforce the laws.

“The traffic ranks will be positioned directly to deal with offence commission.

“The motorist population [must] understand that every action of yours that is not contextualised to be lawful, you can will be charged or ticketed and placed before a court of law,” the Traffic Chief said.

He said the offenders will be reported, charged and follow up will be conducted to ensure that the laws are enforced.