Government not considering any increases of Berbice Bridge tolls

In the statement through the Department of Public Information, the Government said it stands by its decision to reduce tolls in fulfilling a campaign commitment, and will continue to work with the Berbice Bridge Company in ensuring that the Bridge is sufficiently maintained and safe for vehicular and marine use.

Government not considering any increases of Berbice Bridge tolls

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure in a statement this afternoon said it is not contemplating any increases to the Berbice Bridge toll.

In the statement through the Department of Public Information, the Government said it stands by its decision to reduce tolls in fulfilling a campaign commitment, and will continue to work with the Berbice Bridge Company in ensuring that the Bridge is sufficiently maintained and safe for vehicular and marine use.

“Further government notes that the Bridge Agreement places obligations on all parties, which include scheduled maintenance and associated upgrades. Any request for toll increases must take into consideration a wide array of factors and cannot solely be on the basis of recouping operational costs and profits on dividend”, the statement said.

According to the release, The Berbice Bridge provides a critical service to the public and tolls must remain reasonable and cannot be arbitrarily hiked to oppressive and onerous levels.

Government will continue to take practical decisions in the interest of the people of Guyana and the provision of quality services.

The Berbice Bridge company wants the tolls to be increased to stem losses.  If the company get its way, cars and minibuses which currently pay $2,200 to cross the bridge, will have to pay $5,840 while the prices for vessels would move from $110,000 to $291,000 and large trucks from $13,000 to $36,000.

You must be logged in to post a comment Login