Roadworks a headache for businesses

BY MARK HAHUIE
ROADworks in Port Moresby are disturbing businesses in the city through transport delays and employees coming in late for work, according to a major retailer.
City Pharmacy Ltd managing-director Mahesh Patel told The National that authorities need to keep the business community and public informed in advance to lessen the impacts. “There will of course be an effect on logistics for businesses in Port Moresby with the road works,” he said.
“This is not only for CPL but also for other retailers and businesses in Port Moresby.
“We deal with the timely delivery of products from our warehouse to our shops.
“There will be an impact in that area, especially as some products need to be stocked fresh and any period of delay is not good.
“The roadworks also mean that our staff will be coming into work late and that means less productivity.
“We have not really looked into the extent of this on our operations, but am sure that generally this is an issue for all businesses in the city.”
Patel said the Apec Authority should keep businesses in the loop about planned roadworks to allow them to adjust operations.
“It seems like it will get busier towards the end of the year,” he said.
“The Apec Authority and construction companies also have to inform in advance through maps on works, and an overview of planned works.”
Similar concerns were raised by the Business Council of PNG and Port Moresby Chamber of Commerce and Industry in a letter to the PNG Apec Authority last month.
The letter said: “We are a little concerned, however, that with only five months until Port Moresby hosts this auspicious global event, there has been no definite advice given to the business community and residents as to how the event may affect or indeed disrupt both business activity and movement around the city.”