Police warn Lae-Madang travellers to take extra care

POLICE have warned people travelling along the Lae-Madang Highway to take extra care when trying to cross the flooded Tapo River along the way.
Police officers from Madang providing security at the river said heavy rain last weekend washed away materials being prepared to build a temporary crossing for vehicles.
An officer said the river had on previous occasions caused damage to vehicles and even killed people.
“When you reach the river, assess the situation before crossing,” he said.
“We are expecting more rain so the safety of the passengers on vehicles crossing the river must be taken into consideration.”
The officer warned drivers not to overload their vehicles because it could cause accidents.
“The betel nut buyers are the ones overloading buses and trucks,” he said.
“They must always put safety first and must not think about money.
“The current situation at the bridge is okay.
“Drivers must stop on the side of the river and assess whether they can cross before ferrying their passengers across.”