PNG PM Marape Opens Key Road Linking Papua and Highlands
Prime Minister James Marape has described the opening of a new 178km road between Gulf and Morobe as a milestone toward uniting Papua with the Highlands and reducing isolation in rural areas.
Speaking during the launch at Kotidanga, Marape said the project would eventually grow into a national highway. “Kilometre by kilometre, we are bringing services to our people,” he said, calling on villagers to plant more coffee to generate income from the improved access.
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| PNG PM Marape Opens Key Road Linking Papua and Highlands |
Marape also acknowledged the efforts of past leaders, including Sir Michael Somare, Sir Julius Chan and others, who had long envisioned connecting the nation through roads but were hindered by the high costs of construction. He revealed that building a single kilometre of road costs between K7 million and K8 million.
The Prime Minister stressed that the project would benefit teachers, police, health workers and missionaries working in remote communities. He assured the people that no worker serving in places like Kotidanga would be forgotten as the nation marks 50 years of independence.
Works and Highways Minister Solan Mirisim said the government had invested over K40 million in the project, which includes 62km of greenfield construction and 116km of road upgrades. He said 13 local contractors were engaged in the work.
Mirisim highlighted the difficulties faced during construction, such as heavy rainfall, lack of gravel, fuel shortages and rugged terrain. He said the team resorted to helicopter fuel cartage to continue the work. “Building roads in PNG is about overcoming geography, climate and isolation,” he said.
The road is expected to improve the transport of goods, expand access to health and education, and stimulate local economies. Plans for major bridge construction across key rivers are also underway to strengthen the route.
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