Australia is helping PNG to improve its highways in West New Britain and Madang provinces with nearly K20 million.
The road upgrades will fix important highway sections and create local jobs in both provinces.
The support comes through Australia’s Transport Sector Support Program Phase 3 (TSSP3).
The Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) has signed two major contracts with local PNG companies.
These projects will help fix roads and boost the transport system in both provinces.
In West New Britain, Jay LW Contractors Limited received a contract worth nearly K10 million. They will fix and reseal a 24-kilometre part of the New Britain Highway between Balaha Box Culvert and Tiauru Bridge No. 1. The upgrades will make travel safer and easier for local people and businesses in this farming area.
In Madang, South Pacific Construction Limited will repair a 41.2-kilometre section of the Coastal Highway. The work will focus on key road sections and bridges from Airport Junction to Surumarang Bridge. This will help keep Madang town connected to nearby districts.
Secretary Gibson Holemba said these contracts show the department’s commitment to safe and strong infrastructure. He also thanked Australia for its support in helping PNG build local skills and systems.
Dr Cate Rogers from the Australian High Commission said Australia is proud to support roads that help local communities. She said using local contractors and building local skills is important in their partnership with PNG.
As PNG celebrates 50 years of independence, these road works show the strong relationship between Australia and PNG. The TSSP3 program continues to help fix roads, strengthen bridges, and support better transport for everyone in the country.