Page "Transport in Guyana" Paragraph 22

In 2007, construction resumed on the Takutu River Bridge to link Guyana and Brazil in the southwest of Guyana near Lethem.

The bridge was officially opened on September 14, 2009, enabling economic interests in northern Brazil to link by road to the port at Georgetown.

Unprecedented construction and population growth in Lethem since the bridge's opening reflects the significantly increased traffic and movement of goods facilitated by the bridge.

The Takutu Bridge is seen as the first of several joint projects between Guyana and Brazil intended to facilitate cargo traffic: Brazil is expected to subsidize the paving of the Lethem-to-Georgetown road, a development that would have profound impacts on the area's economy and environment.

Dredging of the Georgetown port to accommodate deeper-draft cargo vessels is also being planned.