President Ali criticizes contractors over delays on Corentyne highway bridges

Several bridges along the Corentyne Highway remain incomplete, causing minor traffic disruptions and growing frustration among commuters.

The stalled works are part of the long-awaited four-lane highway expansion from Palmyra to Moleson Creek, raising concerns about the project’s overall progress.

During a visit to Region Six on Thursday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali expressed concern over what he described as poor contractor performance and weak project supervision, which he said have repeatedly delayed the project.

Pointing to several unfinished bridges, the President criticized the “slothfulness” of both the contractor and the supervising engineer.

“I am astonished that liquidated damages are not yet applied,” he said. “From my information so far, these contractors seem disinterested in the completion of these bridges.”

Following the visit, President Ali instructed the Permanent Secretary and Head of Procurement to ensure that contractors responsible for the delays are not awarded any new government projects until the bridges and culverts are fully completed.

He also directed the Finance Secretary to review whether project engineers have failed in their administrative responsibilities, including ensuring proper documentation is in place for corrective action.

“If they are not in place, the Finance Secretary is aware of the powers vested in the system for action to be taken—and action will be taken,” the President added.

The government has emphasized that stricter oversight and stronger accountability measures will be enforced to ensure the timely completion of these infrastructure projects.

Contractors and engineers involved are under pressure to deliver results without further delays.