Thousands witness opening of bridge

The fireworks at the end of the proceedings were considered amazing. So too were the performances by the schools, the foreign acts, and local artistes. The speeches were eloquently delivered. The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force Bands rendered the Taiwanese and local national anthems with a fanfare perhaps not heard in a long time, but the most impressive accomplishment of the evening was the gathering of Vincentians from far and wide for the opening of the Yurumein/ Taiwan bridge over the Rabbaca Dry River and celebration party.{{more}}

In what can be called a show of defiance against the feared and unpredictable Dry River, they turned out in droves, estimated to be between 40 000 and 50 000 by officials, to celebrate with persons north of the river and surrounding areas.

After snaking their way for over an hour to reach the destination, by motorcycle, minivans, cars, buses and trucks, the gathering used the opportunity to unwind, catch up with friends or just take in the scenes from either the area itself or action taking place on the stage.

And celebratory mode they were in. Regardless if they had journeyed from North Leeward, the Northern Grenadines, the Marriaqua Valley or overseas, faces were lit and every one was of good cheer.

And although they came to be a part of the celebrations to open the bridge, they waited patiently until the official ceremonies were ended to converge in their masses on the latest addition to the infrastructure of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Vincentians can give themselves a pat on the back for their conduct on Wednesday. Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves thanked the people for attending the event and for their good behavior, and up to press time there were no reports of any major incidents.