Road gets upgrade
The National, Friday July 10th, 2015
AN Australian-funded project to improve the main trunk road in Central Bougainville has been completed.
It is expected to improve economic development opportunities, access and road safety for communities completed.
The project includes the sealing of the stretch of road from Morgan Junction to Tunuru at a cost of K8.25 million. It was funded by the PNG-Australia Transport Sector Support Programme in conjunction with the Bougainville Department of Technical Services.
It is part of Australia’s investment in Bougainville’s transport infrastructure.
The project includes the clearing of the road shoulders, safe line markings, new traffic signs and two bus stops near markets.
The approaches to Tekanu, Aita, Sivavi and Pit Pit River bridges were sealed.
Australian High Commissioner Deborah Stokes said the project should support economic growth in Bougainville.
“Transport infrastructure is fundamental to social and economic development and these work will improve the safety and reliability of the road in Bougainville.”
Maintaining the quality of this section of the road also provides reliable access to local services and supports small businesses.
Bertha Lorenz, owner of the Rising Sun Guesthouse in Arawa, said it made travelling “more comfortable for guests, reduce travel time and keep my costs down”.
“When the road is not as well maintained, vehicle running costs are much higher.”