Dorpshoofden vragen om noodmaatregelen na instorting brug Witagron

In a pressing open letter to President Jennifer Simons, the village leaders of Apoera, Washabo, and Section have called for urgent measures following the partial collapse of the bridge over the Coppenamerivier near Witagron. The leaders emphasized the need for emergency provisions and long-term structural solutions to restore accessibility to West Suriname. They highlighted that despite repeated warnings, heavily loaded trucks, particularly from the timber industry, have continued to use the bridge, disregarding safety regulations. This negligence has left local businesses and workers without income once again. The letter also demanded clarity on potential compensation for affected entrepreneurs and criticized the unfair burden placed on communities that already benefit little from timber concessions. The leaders proposed two immediate solutions: deploying a pontoon at Witagron for safe transport of people and goods, and expediting the restoration of the road connection between Apoera and Nickerie, including the construction of a bridge over the Kaboerie Creek. They warned that without swift action, the region risks economic isolation, severely impacting supply chains and daily life. The letter concluded with a plea for the president’s prompt attention to ensure the region remains safe, accessible, and economically viable.