B3

WATER TRANSPORT IN GUYANA
JANUARY 1975

102 PAGES OF TEXT
PREPARED BY THE CENTRAL TRANSPORT PLANNING UNIT
FOR
THE GOVERNMENT OF GUYANA

This is a review of the system of waterways, which are navigable and used for transportation in Guyana. The facilities such as ports, vessels and their operation characteristics are briefly described and their deficiencies assessed. It is a very comprehensive survey of infrastructure, services, costs and revenue related to water transport in Guyana.

The water transport programme prepared in the 1972 - 76 development Plan is discussed and its needs and objectives outlined.

The report is sectionalised under the following subheads:

• Historical background and development programme
• Navigation - the navigable waterways
• Ports and Ports’ Facilities
• Traffic and Shipping Service
• Shipping fleet
• Costs and Revenues

RECOMMENDATIONS

These are summarised on pages 97 - 102:-

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING

Bulk cargoes should be the subject of a special study especially concerning bauxite and containerisation and the need for a deep water port.

Consider the possibility of a new coastal fleet which can also participate in intra-regional trade.

Consider a Guyana/Suriname Ferry Service

DOMESTIC SHIPPING

The effect of bridging the Demerara River on the Georgetown - Vreed-en-Hoop ferry service should be studied with a view to determining the future of the ferry terminals on both sides of the river.

Upgrade maritime safety measures.

Rationalise a Parika - Leguan - Wakenaam - Adventure service with the prospect of shifting the terminal from Adventure to Supenaam.

Examine the possibilities of rationalising the Georgetown - North West District service.

Re-examine the desirability of maintaining the Georgetown - Pomeroon service.

SHIPYARDS

Guyana’s shipyards should be used to renew the T&HD fleet.

Their use by Caribbean countries should be canvassed.

INFRASTRUCTURE

Implement a Management Study and Maser Plan to improve operational efficiency of all aspects of water transport services.

Consider establishment of a Ports Authority.

Examine the need for a deep water port.

Review past feasibility studies with a view to priorities and implementation.

Conduct a feasibility study on replacement of an obsolete fleet.