![](https://continuedpovertyisnotanoption.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Suriname-bridge-300x200.jpeg)
CONPOV is closely watching at developments surrounding the proposed Corentyne River Bridge. A few days ago, the PPP announced plans to invite investors to build the Corentyne River Bridge. It said it will be a public-private partnership (PPP), just like the Berbice River Bridge.
A similar PPP arrangement was used for the Berbice River Bridge, but that did not work out well for Guyanese. Firstly, the PPP rejected the proposals from all the reputable firms, including Ballast Nedam. The party refused to accept the technical proposals of a high level bridge at a location further away from the mouth of the Berbice River. It then created its own private company, made up of its friends and associates, and the rest is history. Guyanese are now saddled with an antiqued Acrow Panel floating bridge that is so costly to maintain. The tolls are so onerous, the government had to subsidize it.
One aspect to watch is if the PPP will try to create its own company once more, or if it would try to use the infamous Berbice River Bridge company. Will it insist on an Acrow Panel floating bridge, so that it could get the 10% finders fee to put in its pocket. Yes, the company provides a 10% fee to people who steer business their way.
Another aspect to watch will be the terms of the public private partnership. Will it, as in the case of the Berbice River Bridge, place an unconscionable burden around the neck of Guyanese? Will tolls be out of the reach of the ordinary man? Will they outlaw speedboats like they did in the Berbice River?
The PPP government commissioned two major projects, the Berbice River Bridge and the Skeleton Sugar Factory, and on both occasions they found innovative ways to be corrupt. Will the same happen with the Berbice River Bridge? We have to wait and see. One positive is that Suriname will be watching closely. So will CONPOV.