[Peter Paul Media] — For nearly half a century, the Demerara Harbour Bridge has stood as one of Guyana’s most vital links, carrying thousands of vehicles across the wide Demerara River on a daily basis. What began as an ambitious project in the 1970s is now a landmark of engineering, commerce and everyday life.
When the floating bridge opened on July 2, 1978, it was hailed as one of the longest of its kind in the world. Stretching more than a mile, the steel-and-pontoon structure connected the busy capital Georgetown with the rapidly growing communities on the West Bank of Demerara.
For residents, the bridge meant shorter travel times, easier access to markets and faster connections to schools, hospitals and jobs between east and west.
The bridge’s impact was immediate. Before its construction, commuters relied on ferries to cross the river—a journey often slow and unpredictable. The floating bridge, built at a time of national economic hardship, became a symbol of determination. It was seen not only as infrastructure but also as a promise that Guyana was capable of overcoming obstacles with innovation.
The Demerara Harbour Bridge is more than a static crossing. Its retractable span allows ships to pass, a vital feature for one of the busiest waterways in the country. This design, though ingenious, has also meant careful maintenance and occasional closures for river traffic, testing the patience of drivers but reminding all of the bridge’s dual role as both road and river gatekeeper.
Over the decades, the bridge has aged under constant pressure. Built with an expected life of only 10 years, it has now carried traffic for 47 years. Daily congestion, heavy trucks and the natural wear of tide and weather have turned maintenance into a constant challenge.
Engineers frequently reinforce sections and closures for repairs are now routine. Still, the bridge continues to hold, a testament to both its design and the persistence of those tasked with keeping it afloat.
For many Guyanese, the Demerara Harbour Bridge is more than steel and pontoons. It is part of their personal history—commutes to school, journeys to work or the first trip across as a child. It has also been the scene of national milestones, from political events to major traffic standstills that dominate talk radio.
As Guyana’s economy grew with the discovery of oil in 2015, the limitations of the floating bridge became clear as the beautiful sky above it. The daily traffic far exceeds its original capacity and the delays are a source of constant frustration. Sadly, Saturday is the final day of operation for the famed bridge that has served Guyanese for generations.
The Demerara Harbour Bridge has connected more than two shores; it has connected generations. From its opening day in 1978 to its busy rush hours today, it remains a symbol of resilience and ingenuity—a floating road that has carried Guyana across time as much as across water.
On Sunday, the New Demerara Harbour Bridge will be commissioned just down the road to usher in a new era of travel for all Guyanese. Two lanes, 24/7 operations and toll free crossings are some of the benefits of the new bridge. We took our last ride on September 21, 2025, and will never forget the memories it brought us over the years.
Peter Paul Media 