Japan gives K10 million for bridges in Highlands

National

THE Japanese government has provided a grant of 400 million yen (about K10 million) to build bridges in the Highlands.
“I understand that in PNG, the transportation and traffic infrastructure necessary for basic living and economic activities is not well developed, and the economic and social disparity between urban and rural areas is causing various problems,” Japanese ambassador to PNG Watanabe Nobuyuki said.
He said he was aware that many communities in mountainous areas were still isolated and existing bridges were deteriorating.
“The project will provide the 400 million yen to assemble iron bridges to improve access to health care, education and market space and contribute to the country’s economic and social development,” he said.
Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko thanked the Japanese government for its continuous support and said the iron bridges would be a big relief to the Highlands.
Their construction would be allocated through the Department of Works and Highways, and National Planning and Monitoring.