Chairman of Region 6 (East Berbice/Corentyne), Zulfikar Mustapha has signalled that all roadside vendors would be removed following coordinated efforts by the Public Works Ministry in 2008.

Mustapha made the comment during a press briefing at the Regional Board room last Thursday after being asked about roadside vendors peddling their trade outside the New Amsterdam Hospital on the Fort Canje Public Road.

In addition, Chief Executive Officer of the Regional Health Authority, Dr V. Mahadeo, who was in attendance, added that because of reported incidence of accidents at the main entrance of the health institution, the pedestrian entry would be shifted to the Garrison Road, north of the facility, and, he is optimistic that vendors would shift there location to that area.

Dr. Mahadeo added that a $1.3M canteen was constructed within the hospital compound with the aim of satisfying the needs of patients and visitors, therefore the need for persons to access the roadway to purchase items would be minimised.

He said despite repeated pleas to various sectors including the Traffic Department, the vendor issue seems to be out of everyone’s authority.