20% of phase 1 target under Connect PNG Program yet to be achieved: Wereh

PNG is a very challenging country in terms of geographical terrain, weather conditions, and many people are disconnected by road access.

The government's 20 years legislated flagship program 'Connect PNG' aims to connect PNG through Roads and bridges so it creates a convenient platform for people to access basic services and equally participate in socio-economic activities.

Department of Works and Highways Secretary, David Wereh speaking on a NBC Talkback Show recently said due to under-funding only 30% of 50% target of phase one has been achieved and another 20% is expected to achieve in the remaining years.

Secretary Wereh further clarified that they have only received K4.5 billion of the K7 billion from the government for Phase One [2020-2027] Connect PNG program.

“I think the minimum average amount annually we are looking at is about K1.2 billion per year. Our budget for the last four years from 2020 to 2024 is around 7 billion or so, we've only received about K4.5 billion.

“So there's still a lot of money compared to the last 30 years. And the question that people ask is, and even as you have said, the politicians and many in the public space over there ask is, where is this money going? And the money now is utilized in four key areas, as you have said.

“Key number one priority is on the strategic highways,” Wereh said.

Mr. Wereh said the Connect PNG program is aimed to roll-out in different phases including Missing Roads/links Component, Provincial and District Economic Road Component, and then the National Bridge Development.

“ Connect PNG is not only about opening up the missing links, but it's a holistic approach to improving the existing highways, the provincial roads, and bridges as well,” Wereh added.

Mr. Wereh reiterated that due to the inadequate funding over the last how many years, a lot of the infrastructure has aged as well and demand for roads and bridges rehabilitation has also grown big in every way.

“And to try and accommodate this, we had to come up with drastic action through the Connect PNG program, a 20-year program. And we are happy.

“So we are about 60, 70 percent complete by the 50th independence anniversary in 2025. We'd like to see that certain parts of Papua New Guinea are now fully connected by road network.

“So it's a good story. We're making you know, it's not easy, as I've said, to build roads in very highly mountainous terrain but you know, despite the challenges, contractors have been very persistent in what they're doing and the progress is looking very promising to meet the deadline,” Mr. Wereh said.