[www.inewsguyana.com] – The 118 year old Mahaica Bridge will be re-opened to vehicular traffic by April month-end, according to Khiraj Bisesar, a Ministry of Public Works (MPW) Engineer, overseeing the project.
The railway structure is 175 feet long. The GY$33.9M rehabilitation of the landmarked bridge, which connects Regions Four and Five, started in September 2014 but faced a delay due to unforeseen structural decay.
“We had anticipated a February month-end completion. However, there was structural decay not visible during our inspection. Only when the timber deckings were removed, we found a number badly deteriorated beams. Minister Benn was duly informed and an extension is being sought. It is apt to note there is no cost overrun, just an extension to complete the works,” Bisesar explained.
KB & B Contractors is executing the project. Workers are currently removing the deckings and replacing them with re-enforced concrete. Damaged beams are being replaced, chipped and cleaned.
A pedestrian foot bridge was constructed for pedal cyclists and pedestrians.
“There is the Bygeval Secondary School on the eastern side of the bridge, and there are many individuals including students that live in Helena and other communities that find the foot bridge to be more convenient to access Mahaica,” the Engineer said.
The new Mahaica Bridge stretches 440 feet over the Mahaica River and was officially opened by then President, Bharat Jagdeo, on May 26, 2005. [Ministry of Public Works]
