Patients, healthcare workers, and visitors to the Diamond Regional Hospital on the East Bank of Demerara can soon look forward to safer and easier access, as the Ministry of Housing and the Central Housing and Planning Authority advance construction of new parking facilities aimed at reducing congestion and improving traffic flow in the area.
“The Government of Guyana is constructing two parking lots on both the northern and southern fences of the hospital,” announced Minister of Housing Hon. Collin Croal during a recent site visit. Accompanying him were Minister within the Ministry of Housing, Hon. Vanessa Benn, Deputy Director of Projects at the Central Housing and Planning Authority, Mr. Intakab Indarjeet, and engineers from the Projects Department.
Minister Croal emphasized that the initiative aims to eliminate roadside parking around the hospital, thereby enhancing order and safety in the vicinity. “When this is complete, persons will no longer be able to park on the road, and the Guyana Police Force-Traffic Department will be required to ensure enforcement in this regard,” he stated.
Beyond improving access to the hospital, this project is part of a broader strategy by the Ministry to address community issues related to improper use of public spaces, including the prevalence of kiosks and informal vending along street corners.
The scope of works for the parking facilities includes site clearing and excavation, subgrade preparation and compaction, installation of base and sub-base layers, construction of drainage structures, and installation of lighting to enhance safety and visibility.
Construction works commenced on December 2, and the Ministry aims to complete the project in a timely manner to better serve the community and ensure a safer environment for all who visit the Diamond Regional Hospital.
