Highway reopened after bridge collapse

 THE Oro Bay to Popondetta Highway in Northern was re-opened yesterday allowing a normal flow of traffic. 

Provincial administrator Sem Vegogo told The National that Canstruct Construction Solution, currently building the Girua bridge had completed the wet crossing for the two bridges damaged by heavy flooding last Thursday.

Vegogo said heavy rain last Sunday night again damaged the wet crossing at Girua river and the constructors were working on it late yesterday.

He said the provincial administration had reached an understanding with the landowners and work on the wet crossing began at the weekend.

“I’m currently at the Girua wet crossing and all seems clear but we hope that there will be no more damage,” Vegogo said.

“We have reached an understanding and contractors commenced work in restoring the flow of traffic on the highway.” 

He said there were normal flights into Girua Airport yesterday. The water supply had been restored but was still dirty and not suitable for consumption.

Vegogo said registration was suspended for most schools in the affected area and hoped that all would return to normal today.