MP: Compensation claims affect road works

IT is difficult to construct roads in Obura-Wonenara, Eastern Highlands, because of continuous compensation claims and politics, local MP Mehrra Kipefa says.
He said the district’s rugged terrain and geographical setting were a major factor as well.
“All these have become impediments, but, by force and against all odds, we will build the roads,” he said. Kipefa said the district had embarked on three major roads in which were before the National Procurement Commission.
These roads include the Tekipa-Umba to Marawaka road, Aiyura to Arau road and Aiyura-Norikori-Obura road.
Kepefa said the Obura to Wonenara road would be constructed by the district’s civil works and engineering department.
“Roads are the priority for our district development authority, however, we are struggling due to the geography, which is so mountainous with wetlands.”
Kipefa said the construction was using gravel and stones from outside the district which was a challenge to source but he was confident the work would be completed.