Australian workers assisting in PNG flooding emergency – Oro Province

Bridges in Oro Province; Photo courtesy of  OMEP Australia

Queensland Civil Engineering company Canstruct is working tirelessly in Oro Province, PNG to assist urgent Disaster Relief operations after major flooding tore down several temporary bridges and crossings in the region.

Four bridges, all built by Canstruct however remain intact and upright despite being incomplete.

As many as 75 workers from the Brisbane-based developer have downed tools and are currently helping the relief effort by constructing makeshift wet crossings and temporary roadworks.

Canstruct staff at Girua have also been called on to assist in the transportation of two patients who required urgent medical care at the Popondetta General Hospital.

Canstruct Community Liaison manager Des Gwilliams says workers escorted and secured two patients, one in an ambulance and the other travelling by Canstruct Land Cruiser.

“The crew helped with the stretcher and ensured the patients, doctors, nurses, and family members got across the Girua Bridge safely. There was a mother with a new born baby and also a little boy, who was on a drip and in a critical condition”.

“Once across the Bridge, Project Manager Kris Beard and the Canstruct crew ensured that the patients and their attendants travelled safely in a Canstruct troop carrier to Popendetta”.

All local flights have been cancelled making access around the province extremely difficult.