Gov’t calls for immediate end to Mabura-Kurupukari road toll
August 18 2026
The Government of Guyana is calling on Demerara Timbers Limited (DTL) to immediately stop collecting tolls from motorists using the Mabura to Kurupukari Road, arguing that continued charges are no longer justified given the State’s substantial investment in the roadway.
The position was outlined by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Works Vladim Persaud in a letter to DTL following a meeting on August 10 concerning the toll being collected at a gate along the Mabura Road.
According to the Ministry, the Government, through the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), has maintained the Mabura-Kurupukari section of the roadway for approximately eight years, using significant financial and technical resources to preserve the road and maintain connectivity to hinterland communities.
The Ministry acknowledged that DTL previously carried out maintenance on the roadway and had indicated that written permission was granted for the company to collect a toll.
However, the Government said the circumstances under which that permission was granted have changed significantly.
The Government has since completed the upgrading of the Linden-Mabura Hill Road and is advancing the next phase of the corridor, which involves constructing an additional 30 kilometres of roadway from Mabura towards Kurupukari.
The Ministry said these investments are intended to improve accessibility, reduce transportation costs, stimulate economic activity and benefit all road users, including DTL and its operations.
Against this backdrop, the Government said DTL’s continued collection of tolls is no longer considered appropriate or justified.
The company has therefore been asked to immediately discontinue the toll and stop charging members of the public and other road users for access to the roadway.
The Ministry has also requested written confirmation from DTL that the toll has been discontinued, stressing the importance of facilitating the free and efficient movement of people, goods and services along the national transportation corridor.
