CANARIES, Saint Lucia —
The Project Management Unit (PMU) overseeing the Millennium Highway and West Coast Road Reconstruction Project (MHWCRRP) has released a statement following an incident with one of its trucks. Construction activities along the West Coast Road came to an abrupt halt Thursday morning after a pre-existing retaining wall gave way during paving operations, triggering a minor land slippage that caused an asphalt truck to slide off the roadway. The incident occurred around 10:00 a.m.
The statement notes that while the scene may have appeared alarming to onlookers, project officials confirmed there were no injuries to personnel and only minimal property damage. The area had already been closed to vehicular traffic to facilitate the scheduled paving works.
The affected retaining wall, the statement noted, had already been earmarked for reconstruction as part of the broader upgrade of the West Coast corridor—one of the island’s most vital transportation arteries.
“This incident involved pre-existing infrastructure already scheduled for replacement,” said Project Manager Amos Hippolyte. “Safety remains our absolute priority throughout this critical infrastructure project, and the Project Management Unit is ensuring that contractors are taking all necessary measures to ensure continued safe operations.”
In response to the collapse, the project team immediately secured the area, activated enhanced safety protocols, and began planning for the recovery of the affected equipment. Authorities have been fully briefed and coordinated with to ensure no further disruption.
The West Coast Road Reconstruction Project, part of a major infrastructure investment backed by the Government of Saint Lucia, is aimed at improving road safety, resilience, and connectivity across the island. Thursday’s incident, while a temporary setback, underscores the urgency of addressing aged and vulnerable infrastructure components.
The PMU has apologized for any inconvenience caused and expressed appreciation for the public’s continued patience as works progress.
