President Irfaan Ali has indicated that the construction of the new Berbice River Bridge may begin before the end of this year. During a recent press conference, he provided an update on the status of contract negotiations related to the new bridge and the government’s plans to acquire the existing Berbice Bridge.
Ali stated that the involved parties are close to finalizing the financing arrangements and the final price for the new structure. He expressed optimism, saying, “We are hoping to have that bridge started long before the end of this year.” Regarding the acquisition of the existing bridge, he mentioned that final meetings are taking place and an agreement appears to be imminent, with the possibility of finalization within the next few weeks.
In addition to the bridge, President Ali discussed the proposed Berbice gas development. The government is currently reviewing proposals from ExxonMobil, Fulcrum, and other partners to determine the most effective structure for the project. Ali emphasized the dual objectives of quickly monetizing Guyana’s gas resources while also developing onshore facilities to support broader national development.
He stated, “We want to ensure we can monetize as quickly as possible. But at the same time, we want also to build out the onshore facilities as quickly as possible.” The overarching goal is to leverage gas resources to maximize developmental benefits for Guyana and enhance its regional standing.
Ali also highlighted the importance of discussions with Suriname, particularly as that country evaluates its own gas resources. He mentioned that Guyana is working on its pipeline and is exploring the potential for Suriname to connect to it, which could significantly scale up the project and create additional opportunities.
Interest from the United States has been notable, especially concerning the potential onshore industrial developments linked to Berbice gas. Ali referenced the Berbice gas summit, where there was interest in various major projects, including hyperscale data centers, large urea plants, energy facilities, and petrochemical industries.
He outlined plans for an exclusive development zone in Berbice, with a deep-water port playing a crucial role. Many proposed onshore investments are tied to the establishment of port facilities, as large-scale industrial activities will necessitate robust logistics and export capabilities. The President’s update positions Berbice at the forefront of several significant national initiatives, encompassing bridge development, gas monetization, industrial growth, and regional energy collaboration.
Source: hgptv.com
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