PMV operators demand better roads

PMV operators along the Lae-Madang route (route 100) want the Government to fast track road maintenance because it is becoming too costly to run their business.
Speaking on behalf of PMV owners, Henry Pias said they were feeling the pinch when he sought an extension period for his loan instalment.
“I bought a PMV bus in February but I am already facing difficulty in meeting the instalments because I am just not making enough.
“The poor road conditions, due to flooding, landslides and poor bridge infrastructure hampered PMVs from completing our trips,” Mr Pias said.
He said the four bridges in that area were badly damaged due to the continuous rainfall, landslides and flooding.
“Landslides and flash floods forced PMV drivers to turn back or sometimes wait for hours before crossing.
“The continuous rainfall has also made roads slippery, resulting in PMVs having to stop.
“These problems are affecting our income because we also have to spend more on maintaining our vehicles,” he said.
Mr Pias said the PMV business was not looking very promising and urged the Government to quickly step in and fix up the roads.