‘People buying vehicles shows growing prosperity’ – Jagdeo as PAL vehicle series starts

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo says the rapid increase in vehicle registrations over recent months is clear evidence of growing prosperity among ordinary Guyanese and underscores the importance of continued investment in infrastructure development.

Jagdeo’s comments followed the revelation that the new PAL series of vehicle registrations had commenced just three months after the previous series began, indicating that nearly 10,000 new vehicles were registered between February and June 2025.

“If this isn’t a sign of prosperity and progress, nothing is,” Jagdeo stated, adding that many of the new vehicles are being acquired by ordinary citizens rather than wealthy individuals alone.

The Vice President warned that without expanded road networks and better infrastructure, the surge in vehicle ownership would lead to increased frustration and congestion for everyone.

“If this trend continues, we’re looking at about 40,000 vehicles entering the country annually. Without infrastructure expansion, everyone, including myself, will be stuck in traffic,” Jagdeo said.
He recounted his own recent experience of being trapped in Georgetown traffic despite having a police escort. Jagdeo also criticised the opposition APNU+AFC for advocating a policy to distribute oil revenues directly to citizens rather than investing in critical infrastructure projects such as highways, bridges, and airports.

“They say we are spending too much on roads and infrastructure. But people drive on roads. Infrastructure supports economic growth and quality of life,” he argued.

Jagdeo outlined several key projects planned or underway to ease congestion and modernise Guyana’s infrastructure. These include a four-lane highway from Georgetown to Mahaica.