$200M feed plant, industrial parks, road upgrades planned for East Coast

Some $200 million will be invested to establish a feed facility along the East Coast of Demerara, President Irfaan Ali said on Monday, as the government ramps up efforts to expand agricultural output.

Speaking at a public meeting in Enterprise, Ali said the facility will support livestock farmers by improving access to feed, helping to boost production in the sector.

The president also announced several infrastructure upgrades for Enterprise and surrounding communities, including the replacement of all internal drains with concrete structures and the reconstruction of roads.

Security will be enhanced with additional mobile units and new police outposts aimed at improving community-police relations.

To tackle issues such as noise pollution from mechanics and spray-paint shops operating late at night, the government plans to establish industrial parks. These parks will allow tradespeople to work in a more organised setting, while reducing disturbances in residential areas.

Ali outlined further initiatives, including the construction of agro-processing hubs and manufacturing zones, expanded homeownership support, and cash transfers for home construction and renovation.

The government also plans to reduce taxes on utility vehicles to increase affordability, Ali said.

“Your lives will be improved through innovative ways of expanding income sources for every home and family,” he told the crowd, adding, “We will increase disposable income, savings, and investment capacity.”

Ali said the government is examining the feasibility of a railway linking the East Coast and East Bank corridors to ease traffic congestion.

He noted that the East Coast is emerging as an economic hub, with six hotels and three private hospitals under construction, including facilities specialising in maternal care, pediatrics, and cancer treatment.

These developments are expected to generate thousands of jobs and expand healthcare access. (DPI)