Minister Edghill calls for protection of public infrastructure
-as Mahdia bridge reopens
Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill has urged residents to protect public infrastructure and use established channels to raise their concerns, following the restoration of a bridge destroyed by fire in Mahdia, Region Eight.
During a visit to the rehabilitated bridge, the minister noted that residents and motorists can now safely resume using the crossing.
He condemned the deliberate destruction of public infrastructure, noting that such acts divert resources that could otherwise be invested in further development.
“Lighting fire to bridges and government property makes no sense. You don’t get attention because you light a fire. You get attention because you have representation,” the minister said, urging residents to engage their elected representatives, whether in government or opposition, to have their concerns addressed.
Minister Edghill noted that repairing infrastructure damaged through malicious acts places an unnecessary burden on public finances, while those responsible could face legal consequences.
“Monies that are spent to refurbish, rebuild and rehabilitate after malicious damage are monies that could have been spent on other things,” he warned.
He added that the government would pursue legal action against those responsible for damaging public infrastructure.
The minister also highlighted the importance of improving road safety and building more resilient infrastructure throughout the region.
During the visit, Minister Edghill identified a steep section of roadway leading to another bridge in Mahdia as a significant safety concern, particularly during wet weather when the laterite surface becomes slippery and vehicles experience difficulty navigating the incline.
The public works minister explained that the long-term solution would involve constructing a higher concrete bridge and improving the approaches on both sides to make the crossing safer for motorists.
While immediate improvements are being considered, the minister noted that the section requires more substantial engineering intervention to address its steep gradients and associated risks.
“Safety is key,” Minister Edghill said, explaining that road safety involves not only responsible driving but also ensuring that roads, bridges and approaches are properly designed to accommodate increasing traffic and changing road conditions.
The government is also working to improve other sections of the Mahdia road network, with maintenance contracts already awarded and contractors mobilised to begin works.
The minister said the current dry weather provides an important opportunity to advance construction and rehabilitation activities before the rainy season creates additional challenges.
He expressed satisfaction with the overall progress of infrastructure works in Region Eight, crediting the Regional Democratic Council, regional administration, engineers and local contractors for their continued involvement.
Minister Edghill also emphasised the value of community participation in infrastructure development, noting that local knowledge and technical guidance are helping to improve the quality of bridges and culverts being constructed across the region.
He concluded his visit by noting that government remains committed to delivering safer, more durable infrastructure that supports residents, businesses and the continued development of Mahdia and surrounding communities.
