Central Bougainville to benefit from more reliable roads

Work has commenced on a major project funded by the Australian Government to repair the roads in and around Arawa in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville. The works are part of a K11.6 million project being delivered by the Papua New Guinea – Australia Transport Sector Support Program (TSSP) that also includes resealing of the road to Rigu Bridge, just past Kieta Wharf.

Preparatory works have recently been completed by four local contractors and Dekenai, the contractor engaged to seal the road, is now fully mobilised on site. Sealing works are expected to be completed in early 2016.

Mr Bernard Tzilu, Secretary of the Autonomous Bougainville Government Department of Technical Services, was pleased to see the sealing works begin. “It is vital that we work to bring these roads up to a safer and more reliable standard to provide an improved experience for all the road users of Arawa. The eight roads under repair in Arawa town connect people to the hospital, schools, police barracks, marketplace and local businesses in Central Bougainville.”

Acting Australian High Commissioner, Ms Bronte Moules, was quick to highlight the value of this project to the people of the local area. “Working with and supporting the Autonomous Bougainville Government’s Department of Technical Services to maintain a safe and reliable road network is crucial for people across the region. Extending the works to Kieta Wharf improves integration of the transport network so that it can more efficiently connect people, goods and essential services and act as a catalyst for economic opportunity.”

The new road surface will help minimise future maintenance costs, improve comfort and make the town safer for pedestrians.

This project builds on other works delivered by TSSP in Bougainville, including the recent completion of sealing works between Tunuru and Morgan Junction at the entrance to Panguna.