Milne Bay Provincial Government does own Alotau-Pom highway check

While there's been much fanfare for the opening of the Alotau-Port Moresby Highway under governments Connect PNG Program, the public in Milne Bay have mixed reactions.

The Milne Bay Administration recently sent down officers to track the road and gauge feedback.

Led by Principal Advisor Lloyd Maibani of the provincial administration it took under 24 hours to cross over to Port Moresby, on the way, seeking public opinion and suggestions.

"Generally, the feeling from people living along the border they are grateful for the road. There are couple of things they are worried about such as people coming in with bad influence into their communities"

He says the consensus is a lot of hesitation on the Milne Bay side while those on the Central border are happy, they can go over to Alotau for service and more.

Provincial Administrator Dr Igo Gari who sanctioned the trip says while it cannot be stopped, Milne has to work out how it can control and cushion effects of people movement into the province, so it is not to the detriment of Milne Bay.

They will be using the findings to prepare for when the road is properly opened for use.

At this stage, they cleared it was an old logging route and needed much work, discouraging travelers from trying it ill prepared.