Works are still ongoing to fix the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) after it was struck by a tugboat and a barge.
The accident caused severe damage to the floating structure to the extent where traffic has been suspended.
Ten of thousands of commuters have been affected and are now forced to resort to the Demerara Ferry Service.
Marine transit has also been suspended in wake of the incident which occurred sometime around 00;35hrs on Monday night. The situation has been further exacerbated since the incident occurred on the first day of the new academic school year.
In an update earlier today, Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson, said that works continued on the DHB from 1 a.m this morning, and that “great progress” was made.
He noted that additional repairs still have to be done, and the company is hoping to reopen the bridge for light traffic at around 6 p.m this evening, if all go well.
Patterson said that the company and his ministry will continue to provide the public with regular updates as the day progresses.
He added that “enhanced” water taxis services will remain operational for the rest of today and thanked the public for its patience and support.
Yesterday, Patterson told the media that crew members of the tugboat and barge, who are believed to be Panamanians, were in police custody providing statements.
He said too, that based on the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD)’s preliminary report, the vessel was not manned “properly”. Also, the call for help came too late.
The minister said that the vessel and its cargo were drifting all the way from the Grove/Diamond area and the crew had ample time to notify personnel in Georgetown, however, this was not done until it was too late. He further stated that when the distressed call was received by the lighthouse, the officials could not understand what was being said, since the crew could not speak English.
The word “mayday” was recognized, however, and this initiated a process where the Harbour Master was notified, who subsequently contacted a tugboat owner to render assistance to the distressed vessel. Unfortunately, by the time assistance could be rendered, contact was already made.
General Manager (GM) of the bridge company, said that the barge was carrying a “gravel-like” material, supposedly bauxite.
