President Irfaan Ali on Sunday announced toll free crossing for commuters utilizing the Demerara, Berbice and Wismar Bridges. This will take effect from August 1, 2025.
The announcement was made at Babu Jaan, in Port Mourant, Corentyne during the observance of the 28th death anniversary of the founder of the People’s Progressive Party, Dr. Cheddi Jagan.
The Berbice, Demerara, and Wismar Bridges serve as vital links for trade and travel within Guyana.
However, on Monday afternoon , Linden’s Mayor Sharma Solomon in acknowledging toll free crossing at the Wismar McKenzie Bridge said this will significantly impact the Council’s revenue base.
Solomon in a press statement said the This announcement presents an immediate and historically, the bridge Contributed approximately $6 million per month to the Council’s budget, which totals
more than $70 million annually.
Solomon said to date, the government has not engaged the Council in discussions nor provided any alternative funding solutions to address the substantial budget shortfall that will result from this toll removal. Furthermore, while the new Wismar McKenzie Bridge is expected to be completed in the next two years, the Council has yet to be consulted on how the responsibilities for the maintenance and management of this new bridge will be allocated.