Relocate Lae main market

 THE Lae main market must be relocated to a larger and more centralised area in the city. 

It is not only congested and an eye sore to the city’s image as the 2nd largest city of our country but the location shows poor hindsight and planning in regards to the city’s development and population growth. 

The market’s main bus stop is a classic example of these failures. 

I propose that the Lae main market be relocated to the Morobe show grounds. 

Although the Morobe show is about a good cause, society’s need for bigger central Main Market is greater.  

The area is both ideal in size and location. The area’s size can cater for a new larger market with more spacious stalls to accommodate a variety of vending options for both agriculture and arts and crafts.

 If properly designed, there is ample space to provide important amenities such as rest rooms and car parks, bus stops and even picnic areas. 

The area’s location is also ideal. It’s right in the middle of Lae city allowing incoming people to directly transport their goods to market site whilst at the same time allowing city residents to get there easily. 

Being away from the industrial area also gives it the added advantage of lessening traffic congestions around market area during operating hours. 

While the Government speaks of SME’s and the importance agriculture in the PNG economy, it must not forget the basic and vital roles our local markets play in both these sectors. 

A classic example in the right economic direction is Mt. Hagen. 

The livelihood of our people swivel around their markets. 

That’s where we must start if we want to reach goal 2050. Lae needs a good provincial market. 

A bigger, better and centrally located provincial market. High time we get one. 

Gilinde Kitoria

Lase, Morobe