Minutes of discussions have been signed between the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Ministry of Infrastructure, Ports, Energy and Labour, to mark the start of the first field survey to assess the feasibility of the reconstruction of bridges in the Cul-de-Sac Basin.
The survey is in response to a request made by the Government of Saint Lucia for the reconstruction of bridges in the Cul-de-Sac Basin and will be executed by JICA.
Over the years, Saint Lucia has experienced major economic losses due to infrastructural damages caused by natural disasters. In keeping with the National Hazard Mitigation Policy, which outlines the government’s intentions to reduce and or eliminate the adverse effects of man-made and natural hazards, the reconstruction of the bridges will maintain access to the transportation network and reduce risks of economic losses at the time of natural disasters.
As the first stage in Japan’s Grant Aid Procedures, the preparatory survey needs to confirm the necessity, relevance and feasibility of the project by providing an outline design, implementation plan and cost estimate. This information will then be used by the Government of Japan to make a decision on the project.
The Ministry of Infrastructure, Ports, Energy and Labour will act as the executing agency on the project and will coordinate with all relevant agencies to ensure its smooth implementation.