The commencement of construction for a concrete recreational platform outside Stabroek Market has caused significant disruptions to local vendors and vehicular parking in the area. The project, initiated by the Local Government Ministry, involves the erection of a plywood wall enclosing a large section of the market’s frontage. This has forced phone card and beverage vendors, as well as bus operators on the Lodge, Guyhoc, and South Ruimveldt routes, to seek alternative arrangements. Delivery trucks, which typically supply vendors until 8 a.m., were redirected to the taxi parking area outside Demico, though police indicated this was only a temporary solution. Local Government Minister Priya Manickchand acknowledged the contractor’s failure to effectively communicate with those affected but assured that there are no immediate plans to relocate street vendors. The project, expected to last up to two weeks, aims to construct a raised stage with surrounding pavement to accommodate vendors. While only two vendors are temporarily displaced, the broader impact includes increased traffic congestion, prompting some truckers to suggest delaying the project until after the Christmas season. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to upgrade Georgetown, with Minister Manickchand emphasizing that change often comes with resistance.
Local govt ministry upgrade works outside Stabroek Market dislocate bus parks, truckers
