Engage locals in h’way works, villager says

 By PISAI GUMAR

THE Department of Works and the government have been urged to engage landowner communities in spin-off jobs in the construction of the Lae-Nadzab “super highway”.

Bob Sagaling, from Yalu village, said the government and Works Department and the construction company from China needed to recognise Wampar communities along Lae-Nadzab and use them for work.

Sagaling made his intentions known after Prime Minister Peter O’Neill announced K470 million for building the four-lane highway.

“The so-called ‘super-highway’ will be built on and along the corridor of our communities beginning from 9-Mile to Yalu, Munum, Nasuapum, Tanam and Gabmazung,” Sagaling said.

“It will be proper to identify locals with equipment, skills and expertise to participate in vegetation clearance, drainage and storm drains, culverts, gravel and hiring of equipment, among others activities.

“As locals, we will be in a better position to provide local knowledge, negotiation and involve in mediation in some of the unexpected issues, if they arise.”

He said the local contractors would be supervised thoroughly by the engineers from the construction company and Works to provide what was expected. 

Ssettlers that are not landowners from Wampar were advised not to claim any compensation for anything removed along the road when construction work begans.