Disaster costs more than K220m: Wereh

By ZACHERY PER
THE cost for damage to essential transport infrastructure, caused by natural disasters, is more than K220 million, Secretary for Works and Highways David Wereh says.
“Damages in the Highlands have been valued at K102.7 million while the devastation caused by landslides and floods in Chimbu alone stands at K72 million,” he said.
Wereh noted that many disaster-stricken provinces were quick to respond using any available financial resources to provide relief packages and attend to emergencies including the maintenance of roads and bridges.
He said high rainfall had caused rivers to flood.
The Waghi River washed over the bridge like never before.
“Chimbu and Madang also recorded high rainfall that
destroyed roads and bridges,” Wereh said.
“I thank the Prime Minister and cabinet for responding quickly to assist provinces suffering from the natural disasters.”
He also praised the governments, leaders and people of Chimbu and East Sepik for responding in record time to clear roads and bridges.
People along the Chimbu sections of the Highlands Highway were also acknowledged
for allowing maintenance work to be carried out without interference.
Wereh accompanied Prime Minister James Marape, Defence and Disaster and Emergency Minister Dr Billy Joseph, Education Minister Lucas Dekena, Mining Minister Muguwa Dilu, Vice Minister for Treasury Solen Loifa, Chimbu Governor Noah Kool, Salt Nomane Karamui MP Francis Yori to visit areas in Chimbu affected by the floods and landslips.