Without an efficient and reliable communications system, goods, capital, and workers cannot have the necessary mobility to stimulate and facilitate increased production and productivity, which is the only road towards economic prosperity.

In Guyana, because of underdevelopment that has been caused by colonialism and post-colonial mismanagement, the communications sector, which is integrally linked to the economics of the country, is also underdeveloped.

Those means of communication that exist therefore have to be cared for and maintained with utmost diligence.

The country's resources are limited, and considering its sprawling nature, communications links are vital.

In a move to enhance communication between West Demerara and Georgetown the previous government constructed the Demerara Harbour Bridge in 1978 and it has been a very important link for thousands, despite several problems which were experienced because of poor management in the past.

In recent years there has, however, been a dramatic improvement in the management of the bridge.

But what is very disturbing and disgusting is that every now and then the bridge is damaged due to apparent recklessness and carelessness of some users of the Demerara River.

Last Wednesday's night damage to the bridge by a tug came after a similar accident put the crossing out of action for more than a week, causing enormous suffering and discomfort to thousands of people who use the bridge daily to get to and from work, school and on business and other matters.

The maintenance crew at the Demerara Harbour Bridge must be commended for the expeditious repairs they have effected on both occasions.

Had they not done so, thousands of people, including young children and the sick and the elderly would have seen hell for a long period.

However, what seems clear now is that several preventative measures should be introduced to minimise the recurrence of such happenings, and among those that should be considered are:

** disallowing tugs that are pulling pontoons from operating in the vicinity of the bridge at nights;

** drastically increasing the fines and or penalties for those responsible for causing damage to the bridge;

** withdrawing the licences of those captains of vessels who are found drunk on the job, and

** mounting a thorough investigation to determine if lighting and other relevant facilities are adequate at the bridge.

It must be recognised by all that the Demerara Harbour Bridge is a vital communication link for the movement of goods, capital and people throughout this country.