Three bridges opened

 Reports by HELEN TARAWA
THREE of the four bridges built in Northern recently at a cost of K139 million were officially opened yesterday.
Works and Implementation Secretary David Wereh said the Government was pleased to open the bridges – Eroro, Girua and Ambogo. The fourth, Kumusi, will be completed soon.
Wereh said the bridges were of high standard and would be able to withstand most weather.
“I’m pleased to say that the design for these bridges will stand up to any weather condition equivalent to Cyclone Guba experienced some time ago in this province,” he said.
“The design standards and technical specifications must be updated to react to impacts of climate change in PNG.
“We must build a transport infrastructure that will last and serve our people in the long term.
“Today the Department of Works delivers a network for the business people and other service delivery agents in this province.”
Wereh said road safety was important to the department and the project had delivered a safe transport infrastructure for Northern.
He acknowledged the long term partnership arrangements with the Australian government.
“All of these are possible through the long term partnership arrangements we have with the Australian government. I would like to acknowledge the Australian government.”
Wereh said support from the Australian government included procurement, supervision and contract management. “Works staff in the province and in Waigani have learnt a lot from being involved in this project,” he said.
“I look forward to continuing this productive partnership at the department.
“It is very pleasing to see the tangible outcomes of the Government’s plans and policies to real change for people of PNG. I encourage the people of Oro to continue to make the most of this world-class infrastructure and ensure that they are maintained.”