Kassam Pass road heading for a smoother ride

Works Department Secretary David Wereh says Kassam Pass along the Highlands Highway is a road of significance.
“This project is critical to keeping traffic safe along the Highlands Highway,” he said.
“The road passes through some challenging and unstable terrain and this work is to ensure that the essential economic lifeline remains open.
“Despite difficult geological conditions, local contractors have achieved impressive results. Road users will notice a smoother road surface, improved drainage, gabion baskets and new guard rails.
“This is all designed to keep the travelling public moving safely and connect businesses and communities.”
An earlier landslip at Kassam Pass had turned the road hazardous. This new project has shifted the road further into the mountain, improved drainage, repaired and resealed the surface.
Smith Yauwe, working for one of the local contractors engaged in the project, is pleased to see the changes to the highway.
“This project has provided a boost to the local economy and delivers a safer road for all. I am proud to be able to contribute to maintaining our country’s national priority road network, with funding support from Australia,” he said.
In 2017, the PNG-Australia Transport Sector support programme and Department of Works delivered road maintenance works worth K60 million through more than 70 local contractors.