World Bank Approves US$156 Million for Guyana’s Road Infrastructure Project

The World Bank has approved a US$156 million infrastructure project in Guyana to improve road safety and resilience against natural hazards. The Integrated Transport Corridors Project aims to enhance road conditions, support economic growth, and ensure better access to services. Key features include road safety audits, infrastructure upgrades, and prioritization of inclusivity for vulnerable groups.

The World Bank has approved a significant funding initiative of US$156 million aimed at enhancing Guyana’s road infrastructure through the Integrated Transport Corridors Project. This project is designed to improve the safety and reliability of transportation across selected regions of Guyana, particularly in the coastal areas that are highly susceptible to natural hazards. The investment seeks to provide resilient solutions to the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions, underscoring the government’s commitment to infrastructure development amidst rising economic demands.

The release from the World Bank highlights that Guyana’s road conditions are problematic, with a concerning road mortality rate of 15 deaths per 100,000 population. The project aims to rehabilitate key road corridors, improve drainage systems, and implement infrastructure upgrades to combat issues such as erosion and flooding. This will enhance transportation links critical for agriculture, tourism, trade, and community access to essential services.

In addition to upgrading infrastructure, the project emphasizes the importance of road safety and inclusivity. It aims to conduct safety assessments across the primary road network and install various road safety measures, including barriers and dedicated lanes for pedestrians and cyclists. The project’s objective includes addressing high-risk areas, such as schools and hospitals, and tailoring mobility plans to assist vulnerable demographics, especially women.

Diletta Doretti, the World Bank Group Resident Representative for Guyana, stated, “Guyana’s rapid economic expansion places increasing pressure on infrastructure, while the growing risks from natural hazards further challenge the country’s systems.” This initiative should equip the road network to better manage growth and enhance resilience against environmental pressures. The funding originates from the World Bank’s International Development Association, which focuses on supporting low-income countries like Guyana.

The World Bank assesses Guyana’s infrastructure requirements as significant, ranking low on both the Global Competitiveness Index and the Logistics Performance Index. With a diverse geography, effective transport connectivity is vital for remote communities, facilitating access to markets and services. Poor road conditions contribute to higher transport costs, impacting both domestic and international competitiveness for local goods.

Additionally, the country’s road network consists of approximately 7,970 km, with a limited percentage designated as primary and feeder roads. Enhancements in these networks are integral to improving connections between urban and rural areas, particularly in the context of the Guyana – Suriname and Georgetown – Linden transport corridors. Upcoming infrastructural projects, such as new bridges, aim to bolster economic ties with neighboring countries, essential for trade and agriculture.

The approval of the US$156 million road project by the World Bank signifies a critical step towards improving Guyana’s transportation infrastructure and road safety. This initiative aims to address significant challenges posed by extreme weather, promote economic growth, and enhance community access to essential services. With a focus on inclusivity and safety, the project aspires to transform Guyana’s road network, ensuring it meets the demands of a rapidly growing economy while safeguarding against natural hazards.

Original Source: www.stabroeknews.com