Linden–Mabura Highway Upgrade Advances as Hinterland Connectivity Expands

The upgrade of the Linden–Mabura Highway has reached about 65 per cent completion, according to the Ministry of Public Works, as Guyana continues efforts to strengthen inland transportation linking coastal and hinterland communities.

The project builds on a legacy of hinterland road development that began with the construction of the Linden–Soesdyke Highway in the late 1960s. That roadway was officially commissioned in 1969 under the government of Prime Minister Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham and the People’s National Congress (PNC) administration. Developed as a strategic inland link between Soesdyke on the East Bank Demerara and Linden (then Mackenzie/Wismar), the highway formed part of Burnham’s broader push to integrate interior communities with coastal economic centres while supporting the bauxite industry.

Built largely with Guyanese labour and engineering input, its completion reduced travel time between Georgetown and Linden, improved the movement of goods, and opened access to communities such as Kuru Kururu and Yarrowkabra. It later became a critical corridor connecting the coastland to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport at Timehri and enabling expanded forestry, mining and agricultural activity.

Extending that inland network, the Linden–Mabura corridor serves as a key route from Linden in Region Ten to Mabura Hill and onward to the hinterland, forming part of the main overland link to Lethem and the Brazil border.

Current works on the Linden–Mabura upgrade show steady progress. Approximately 85 kilometres of the final asphalt surface have been completed, while contractor Álya Construtora has also laid about 88 kilometres of asphaltic binder course. Clearing activities along the alignment are finished and road surface works continue to accelerate.

Foundational construction is well advanced, with roughly 90 kilometres of base course and 98 kilometres of sub-base installed. Sub-grade preparation is ongoing to support the remaining works, while drainage infrastructure has surpassed 22 kilometres, with an additional 18 kilometres under construction to ensure long-term road durability.

Bridge construction is progressing alongside the roadworks. Temporary bypasses have been established at key locations to maintain traffic flow, and piling preparation has commenced following successful structural testing. Culvert installation at several points is also underway to strengthen water management along the route.

Finishing and safety works are advancing in completed sections. Portions of the roadway have been pre-marked ahead of permanent lane markings, more than 150 traffic signs have been installed, and hundreds of turnouts along with kerbs and medians are adding structure and safety to the corridor.

Once completed, the upgraded highway is expected to benefit more than 50,000 Guyanese by reducing travel time, improving the movement of goods from the coast to hinterland communities, and supporting economic activity across forestry, mining and agriculture. Construction is currently targeted for completion by August 23, 2026.