The Invest in Nationhood Party (WIN) has issued a stark statement highlighting concerns over substandard works associated with the US $192 million East Coast Demerara Road Expansion Project, particularly regarding the railway embankment road and the new Hope Canal Bridge.
Despite the PPP government’s claims of significant infrastructural advancement, recent inspections conducted by Mr. Azruddin Mohamed and Mr. Vishnu Panday on December 14, 2025, have raised serious concerns about the quality and safety of the construction overseen by Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill.
Photographic evidence reveals what WIN describes as “poor workmanship and structural defects” on the bridge structures along Hope Estate Road. The inspections indicated troubling signs, including foundation scouring and exposed steel reinforcement rods. Furthermore, the bridge over the Hope Canal has been found to have visible holes on the southern carriageway, posing an immediate danger to motorists. The report also criticizes traffic safety measures, noting that the cones placed on the bridges lack reflectors, exacerbating safety risks.
These bridges are part of a crucial transportation corridor intended for heavy and continuous vehicular traffic. However, despite their relatively new status, the foundations of the Hope Bridge have shown significant deterioration prior to its completion, prompting questions regarding the construction standards, supervision, and long-term durability of the project.
WIN alleges a disconnect between the government’s proclamations of infrastructural development and the troubling realities on the ground. They pointed out that the costs associated with the Hope Bridge were not itemized separately from the comprehensive project running from Sheriff Street to Mahaica, raising concerns about transparency and public accountability regarding taxpayer money.
“This is what corruption looks like under the PPP,” the statement read, emphasizing concerns over possible misuse of public funds.
In light of these findings, the We Invest in Nationhood Party is calling for an independent audit of the Hope Bridge and related embankment structures, demanding full public disclosure of all project costs and any changes made during construction. They are also seeking accountability from Minister Edghill and the contractor, China Railway First Group Co. Ltd.
The party underscored that infrastructure development should genuinely benefit the country, rather than serve as a symbol of waste and inadequate oversight.
