Japan govt to fund reconstruction of two bridges

By GYNNIE KERO in Kimbe
TWO bridges in West New Britain will be reconstructed at a cost of K70 million to be provided by the Japanese government.
The damaged and deteriorated Kapiura and Aum bridges on the New Britain Highway were originally made by a Japanese firm in the 1980s as part of a policy to construct a road for timber production.
Based on a request by the National Government, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) implemented a survey to reconstruct the Aup and Kapiura bridges using Japanese technology.
Speaking at a ground breaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the two bridges in West New Britain yesterday, Japanese ambassador to PNG Satoshi Nakajima said the two bridges mentioned would connect people on both sides of the bridge and give them access for basic services such as health and education.
“Furthermore, West New Britain is a major producer and exporter of palm oil which contributes about k1.1 billion to the country every year.
“Oil palm industry also provides employment and other benefits for the local communities.
“Aum and Kapiura bridges will create an important link.
“I hope that once completed they will be fully utilised to facilitate traffic of people and goods.
“This project is part of Japan’s contribution to support PNG Government’s efforts to enhance its infrastructure.”