Gov’t to introduce strict truck weight regulations for new Demerara River Bridge

The Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge marks a significant milestone in Guyana’s infrastructure modernisation and now, the government is moving to implement tougher weight regulations for trucks and heavy-duty vehicles.

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill on Monday said that new limits have been approved by Cabinet and will soon take effect.

“Part of the problem is that the old Demerara River Bridge had a limited use of trucks of up to 18 tonnes.

“The regulations have been approved at Cabinet, and I’m in the course of putting them into order — 15 tonnes per axle. That is the weight we are allowing on bridges and roads across the country,” Minister Edghill said.

He explained that these measures are critical for preventing damage caused by overweight vehicles, which contribute significantly to road deterioration and costly maintenance.

The ministry will be installing weigh-in-motion scales at strategic locations and has procured 1,000 truck clamps for use by the Guyana Police Force to enforce this new regulation.

“When you’re caught overweight, it’s not just a ticket. We are clamping you, and you’re going to stay there until the excess weight is discharged. Because if we allow you to continue, you’re making the damages as you go along,” the minister said.

The new bridge, commissioned on Sunday, is designed to accommodate heavier traffic volumes and forms part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance connectivity, improve safety, and safeguard infrastructure investments.

The combination of modern bridge infrastructure and strict regulation will help ensure that Guyana’s expanding transport network remains durable and efficient as trade and commerce continue to grow.