President Dr. Irfaan Ali says Guyana’s ambitious East Bank infrastructure programme is being designed not only for road expansion but also as a model of sustainable, climate-smart, and future-ready development — featuring advanced drainage systems and a proposed light commercial rail link to support the fast-growing corridor from Diamond to Soesdyke.
During an inspection of ongoing works at Buzz Bee Dam, President Ali said the multi-phase project represents a transformative approach to national infrastructure planning — integrating engineering innovation, housing expansion, and climate resilience.
“We are optimizing how we use our land,” the President said. “Even as we expand the road network, we’re improving drainage capacity, opening new industrial zones, and planning for a future where rail and road complement each other.”
Innovative Drainage and Design
The President highlighted that each new section of the road network is being built with dual drainage canals and median systems designed to enhance flood control and environmental management along the East Bank corridor.
“We are not losing any drainage capacity — in fact, we’re gaining more,” President Ali explained. “These canals on both sides of the new carriageways will be interconnected and redirected around the roundabouts, increasing overall drainage efficiency and protecting surrounding communities.”
The drainage design is linked to the Demerara Water Conservancy and will strengthen the capacity of communities to manage heavy rainfall and runoff. The system, he said, mirrors the government’s wider commitment to climate-resilient infrastructure.
President Ali praised the Ministry of Housing for its strong leadership in driving multiple greenfield projects that are unlocking thousands of new residential and commercial plots along the East Bank.
“The Ministry has done amazing work in expediting these projects,” he said. “Their coordination ensures that housing, drainage, and transportation develop hand in hand, not in isolation.”
He added that, weather permitting, all excavation and drainage works are expected to be completed by March 2026, allowing continuous construction through the dry season.
Exploring a Future Rail Link
In addition to the extensive road expansion, President Ali announced that the government is studying the feasibility of a light commercial rail link along the East Coast–East Bank corridor, which would connect communities from Enmore and Lusignan on the East Coast to Land of Canaan and Timehri on the East Bank.
“We’ve deliberately left a high dam reserve between Buzz Bee and the East Bank for the possibility of a rail link,” the President revealed. “I’ve asked the Ministry of Housing to prepare a study within six weeks to determine the cost and design options for this light rail system.”
The rail line, once developed, would complement the expanded East Bank highway network and connect directly to major transportation arteries, including the new Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge, Ogle–Eccles Highway, and the Soesdyke–Linden Highway.
President Ali said the goal is to establish a multi-modal transport system that integrates road, rail, and river transport, allowing for faster movement of goods and people while reducing congestion and emissions.
“Our infrastructure plan goes beyond roads and bridges,” he emphasized. “We are building a comprehensive network that links housing, industry, and transport in one ecosystem — ensuring efficiency, sustainability, and long-term growth.”
He added that the combination of smart drainage, advanced roadworks, and the proposed rail system would position Guyana as a regional model for integrated development, balancing modernization with environmental responsibility.
“We are building for the future,” President Ali concluded. “From the roads and canals to the rail planning, every component reflects our determination to ensure that Guyana’s transformation is modern, resilient, and inclusive.”