Damage to sidewalks not due to poor construction — Ministry highlights misuse

The Ministry of Public Works says recent damage to newly constructed sidewalks and drainage covers along Aubrey Barker Road and Diamond Back Road is not the result of faulty engineering or substandard materials, but rather improper use by motorists.

In a statement issued following technical investigations, the Ministry clarified that the infrastructure was built to standard and designed specifically for pedestrian use and light residential traffic.

According to the Ministry, the walkways function as reinforced drain covers capable of supporting pedestrians, cars, and SUVs accessing private properties, as well as short-term parking for light vehicles. However, officials have identified a growing pattern of misuse, particularly involving heavy-duty trucks, industrial vehicles, and machinery exceeding the intended load capacity.

“These structures are not designed to serve as heavy-duty haulage routes or industrial parking lots,” the Ministry stated, noting that excessive weight has led to cracking and, in some cases, complete structural failure.

The damage, the Ministry warned, creates safety risks and leads to unnecessary public expenditure on repairs. It also disrupts communities, often resulting in road closures or restricted access during rehabilitation works.

To prevent further deterioration, the Ministry is urging truck operators and contractors to seek alternative parking arrangements suitable for heavy vehicles. It also advised that during construction deliveries, trucks should remain on the main roadway and avoid mounting sidewalks.

Where heavy access is unavoidable, the Ministry recommends temporary protective measures, such as installing steel plates, to safeguard the infrastructure.

The Ministry emphasized that maintaining public infrastructure requires collective responsibility and warned that individuals found deliberately damaging these assets may be held financially liable for repairs.