Although work has resumed on the Takutu Bridge linking Guyana with Brazil, no official word on the restart has been transmitted to local authorities.

Brazilian Ambassador Ney Do Prado Dieguez said yesterday that he had not been officially informed although he recently returned from a two-month vacation to his homeland.

He said he was currently trying to get some official information from the Secretary of Works in the government of the State of Roraima under whose auspices construction is proceeding.

An investigation into certain irregularities concerning the firm contracted by the Brazilians to construct the bridge had caused long delays since work first started in 2001. With the conclusion of the probe, work has recommenced

The bridge is seen as key to promoting trade between the two countries.

Minister of Regional Development Harripersaud Nokta had inspected work on the bridge during a recent visit to Lethem.

Attempts to contact the Ministry of Public Works have proved futile.

Communication Consultant to the ministry, Ajay Baksh said the ministry had not been officially informed about the bridge's status.