Dear Editor,
As Chairman of Mindful Guyana Inc., I wish to raise a matter of public importance concerning the construction of pavements, walkways, and certain roadways in Georgetown and along sections of the East Coast Demerara and other parts of Guyana.
Let me state from the outset that these comments are not intended as criticism of the Ministry of Public Works or the government’s ongoing infrastructure programme. Guyanese have every reason to welcome the significant investments being made to improve our roads and public spaces. However, development should be measured not only by the quantity of infrastructure constructed but also by how accessible and functional it is for every citizen.
A growing concern is that many newly constructed pavements and walkways appear to have uneven elevations, abrupt level changes, and designs that make them difficult to navigate for persons with physical disabilities, senior citizens, and others who depend on canes, walkers, wheelchairs, or similar mobility aids. Infrastructure that should facilitate movement is, in some instances, creating new barriers.
Even more troubling is that there are locations where the absence of continuous, accessible walkways forces pedestrians onto the roadway, requiring them to walk in the face of oncoming traffic. This presents an unnecessary danger, particularly for those whose mobility or vision is already compromised.
Beyond the physical risks, it is important to also consider the psychological and emotional impact that such environments can have on persons living with disabilities or mobility challenges. When public infrastructure is not designed with inclusivity in mind, it can contribute to feelings of exclusion, frustration, and diminished dignity. Over time, repeated encounters with unsafe or inaccessible spaces may lead to heightened anxiety, reduced confidence in navigating public areas, and a reluctance to participate fully in community life. In more severe cases, such experiences can contribute to social withdrawal and negatively affect overall mental well-being.
Accessibility is therefore not only a matter of physical safety but also of mental health and social inclusion. A built environment that consistently presents obstacles to vulnerable citizens risks reinforcing a sense of marginalisation, which no society committed to equity and development should ignore.
Also, there is the issue of drainage. Some recently constructed roads appear to have depressions or uneven gradients that allow stormwater to accumulate during periods of heavy rainfall. Standing water inconveniences motorists and pedestrians, contributes to the premature deterioration of road surfaces, and creates conditions that may adversely affect public health.
Perhaps those responsible for the design and construction of these projects could place greater emphasis on proper grading and drainage to ensure that rainwater is efficiently channelled away from roadways. Good engineering should deliver roads that are not only durable but also resilient during adverse weather.
Mindful Guyana Inc. offers these observations in the hope that they will contribute to ongoing improvements in infrastructure planning and execution. As our country continues to modernise, we have a unique opportunity to create public spaces that are safe, accessible, and inclusive for all Guyanese, regardless of age or physical ability.