The Trinidad and Tobago government has initiated a nationwide infrastructure rehabilitation program targeting deteriorated road networks and public utilities. Works Minister Jearlean John revealed that the Highways Division maintains systematic oversight through biweekly inspections across all eight operational districts, prioritizing interventions based on deterioration severity, traffic volume, and potential risks to public safety.
Minister John detailed specific maintenance challenges, identifying approximately 113 defective manhole covers and over 223 linear meters of damaged pavement along the Southern Main Road corridor alone. The ministry is currently prioritizing procurement of materials for comprehensive repairs while maintaining inventories of missing bridge handrails for future installation as funding becomes available.
Simultaneously, Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath announced an aggressive street light restoration initiative following a comprehensive national audit. The audit revealed widespread aging and outdated lighting infrastructure inherited from previous administrations. Padarath credited newly appointed T&TEC General Manager Ian Ramrattan, who rejoined the organization from Canada’s power sector, with driving rapid improvements in utility infrastructure.
The government acknowledges inherited challenges including outdated power lines causing recent outages in Central and East Coast regions. Officials emphasize shifting focus from loss-yielding mega projects to practical infrastructure upgrades, with both ministries coordinating technical support and funding allocation for nationwide improvements.