Plan aimed at improving transport system

THE Government’s Connect PNG initiative will improve the country transport system on land, sea and air, according to Minister for Transport and Infrastructure William Samb.
He yesterday presented an overview of the Government’s plans for a well-integrated transport system, featuring three key agencies: the Department of Transport, the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) and the Road Traffic Authority (RTA).
He said the National Executive Council had approved a funding of K250 million over a period of five years for the transport department, including the co-financing of two vessels for Talasea and North Bougainville for K5million each.
The NMSA has seen to the establishment of the Small Craft Act boards in 13 of the 15 maritime provinces.
Samb said awareness had also been undertaken in eight provinces, using the media to send out messages about safety at sea.
He said the RTA had introduced a driver licensing and vehicle registration system, plus a review of the management and enforcement of traffic rules.
The Government is also consideration extending the Morobe-Gulf road link with a Morobe-Central link to help in the transporting of fresh produce from Central to Port Moresby.

Minister for Transport and Infrastructure William Samb
after Parliament yesterday. – Nationalpic by KENNEDY BANI