Georgetown: The Ministry of Public Works is looking at various options to bring a solution to problems facing region nine in light of the collapse of the Moco Moco bridge in Lethem.
This is according to subject minister, Robeson Benn who met with the region nine administration and members of the business community to address problems they are facing.
The Ministry of Public Works is looking to implement weight restrictions and tolls for vehicles using bridges in Lethem to help preserve the structures, especially during wet weather.
This is according to subject minister, Robenson Benn who said that they have received numerous reports of the inclement weather and indiscriminate use affecting the bridges.
“We are coming up with three options to consider by Wednesday; to have a temporary solution or a full solution with respect to the usage of the bridge. It cannot be used now and access to Deep South is only by going around through St. Ignatius”
Minister Benn, with a team of engineers and contractors were at the time meeting with the Region Nine administrations, members of the neighborhood democratic council and the business community in Lethem.
Benn said the team looked at the bridge at St.Ignatius which is in fair condition and continue to be used, not allowing heavy trucks to cross.
“We are very concerned that the bridges are mostly designed for 12 tonnes (the bridge which collapsed was designed for 12 gross tonnes) with a factor of safety of 1.5 tonnes. It appears that there is frequent heavy loading of that bridge as it appears too for many others in the area.”
Benn advised persons wishing to transport heavy equipment into the Deep South walk the equipment over the stream’s bed, taking into consideration the height of the water.
Other options under consideration include upgrading the Moco Moco Bridge and application of tolls for roads and bridges during the wet periods.
The Moco Moco Bridge, (Bridge No. 2), along the culvert city long way collapsed last Thursday under the weight of a truck transporting an excavator heading to Lethem from Deep South Rupununi.
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