The Ogle to Providence Road extension is progressing, with the new connecting route expected to improve commuters’ access between the Ogle Highway and the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge.
Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill visited the project on Tuesday to assess construction progress and finalise arrangements for farmers whose crops and livestock are affected by the ongoing works.
Minister Edghill said the road had been extended from Eccles to Providence, with a connector linking that section to the harbour bridge.
He explained, “When you come over the harbour bridge, you will get a connector road coming all the way down to Providence, and you connect to the Ogle Road.”
The minister added that the agreements with affected cattle and crop farmers are being addressed to allow construction to advance while protecting their livelihoods. All outstanding agreements will be completed by Friday.
Crop compensation will follow assessments by the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI). At the same time, officials are finalising arrangements for affected structures and assistance with moving livestock pens.
Farmers will be informed individually of the amounts before signing their agreements.
“Nobody will get less than what they asked for, and I give you that assurance. We want you to continue with your business, economic opportunities and livelihood to support your families. It has been the policy of the government that, no matter where we are taking development, we don’t stymie or interfere with economic opportunities,” the public works minister stressed.
Additionally, several homes must be relocated to accommodate the project’s advancement and Minister of Housing Collin Croal is leading that process, which is well advanced. (Department of Public Information)
