Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says rehabilitation of the national road network is progressing steadily, with more than one-third of the 151 corridors damaged by Hurricane Melissa already cleared or reopened to at least single-lane access.

Delivering a statement in Parliament on Tuesday (November 4), Dr. Holness said that 134 roads were fully blocked at the height of the storm, particularly across western parishes.

“Priority has been given to corridors serving hospitals, airports, seaports, water treatment plants, and emergency shelters, ensuring that lifesaving assistance and relief supplies can reach affected communities swiftly. This recovery effort is a testament to the determination and discipline of our technical teams and the spirit of Jamaican partnership,” he noted.

The Prime Minister said the National Works Agency (NWA) has mobilised 14 parish-level technical teams supported by engineers, administrative staff, and key partners, including JPS, NWC, ODPEM, and the security forces.

“Simultaneously, technical teams are assessing bridges, river training structures, retaining walls, coastal revetments, and gully systems. Once access is restored across all affected communities, we will transition from emergency access to full road rehabilitation,” Dr. Holness stated.

He added that major partners under the SPARK Programme, including China Harbour Engineering Company and local contractors, along with private sector and community volunteers, are contributing equipment and manpower to accelerate the national recovery.

Dr. Holness thanked all stakeholders for their support, noting that the combined effort reflects Jamaica’s resilience and unity in recovery.