The first coaster bus has reached Ruti in Baiyer Valley of Western Highlands Province following the opening of the Baiyer–Madang missing link under the Connect PNG program.
It marked a major breakthrough in road access for remote communities in Western Highlands and Madang provinces.
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Secretary for the Department of Works and Highways, Gibson Holemba, described the development as a significant milestone for communities that have waited generations for reliable road access.
“Today marks a historic milestone as the first coaster bus arrives at Ruti in Baiyer Valley through the newly opened Baiyer–Madang Missing Link under the Connect PNG Program,” Mr. Holemba said in a statement.
He said communities in Baiyer and Middle Ramu had long struggled with isolation due to the lack of road infrastructure.
“For generations, our people in Baiyer and Middle Ramu longed for reliable road access and the opportunities that come with connectivity. Today, that dream is becoming a reality,” he said.
Mr. Holemba credited the progress to the support of Assistant Speaker of Parliament and Middle Ramu MP, Kansol Kamdaru, and contractor Api Builders Ltd for pushing ahead with the road connection.
He said the road would improve access to education, healthcare, markets and government services for rural communities while opening new economic opportunities.
“This road is more than infrastructure — it is a pathway to education, healthcare, markets, government services, and economic opportunity for our rural communities, Secretary Holemba said.
He said the Connect PNG program was aimed at linking isolated parts of the country to major economic centres and ensuring rural populations had equal access to services and opportunities.
Secretary Holemba said work was continuing to fully connect the Baiyer–Madang missing link by the end of this year.
“Connect PNG is our vision to unite our nation, unlock our economic potential, and connect our people for generations to come,” he said.