Govt. should employ eminently qualified engineering consultants to prepare plans for a port Project
Apr 09, 2025
Dear Editor,
In an April 06 article of KN, it was reported that “the Government through the Ministry of Public Works is currently seeking contractors to construct a modern Ferry stelling at Parika (the Project)”.
It is not clear at this stage of development what the Project really is and hopes to accomplish and cater for, but a Stage I listed in the Article seems to entail concrete-driven piles to support a refurbished deck with new superstructure facilities. The existing Parika Stelling has no area for land reclamation to facilitate any meaningful Project expansion, as was stated, and it would be costly to acquire adjoining land to expand the stelling and create a regional hub for transportation.
Therefore, the Government, at this juncture of the country’s development, should employ eminently qualified engineering consultants to prepare plans for a port Project on the right bank of the Essequibo River, north or south of the existing Parika Stelling, where a suitable location could be found for any meaningful port expansion. The site should have a deep enough channel to accommodate ocean going vessels, land to store containers, equipment, machinery, ample parking areas, etc. and a riverbank free of obstacles to drive piles necessary for the new wharfage as this could be a major problem for the contractor who will be refurbishing the existing facility.
The new port facilities should cater not only for ocean-going vessels but ferries and all types of river vessels as well. This new port will enhance the development of the Essequibo region greatly. The proposed project, now undergoing preparation, lacks many facilities, such as storage and parking areas, to enhance the efficiency of a modern transportation hub because of poor planning.
Yours truly,
Charles Sohan
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