PNG opens longest footbridge, boosting access in Hiri West

The K15.41 million footbridge constructed at Papa-Lealea village in Hiri West, Central Province was officially opened today.

Department of Works and Highways [DoWH] Secretary, Gibson Holemba, during the opening, welcomed the new 220-meter footbridge.

Mr. Holemba said: “The bridge will become Papua New Guinea’s first longest footbridge."

The footbridge connects Lealea Village 1 to Lealea Village 2 along the Hiri West corridor, at the end of Napanapa Road, just outside Port Moresby will serve more than 11,000 people.

It was built under the Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme [ITCS], the project brought together multiple financiers, including ExxonMobil, Santos, ENCOS Explora, Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited [KPHL], and the Mineral Resources Development Company [MRDC].

Mr. Holemba said there were stakeholders from both the government and private sector to deliver the project.

"Stakeholders from the government include the Department of Works and Highways, Conservation and Environment Protection Authority [CEPA], PNG Power Ltd, and the National Maritime Safety Authority [NMSA].

"Private sector partners include ExxonMobil PNG Ltd, LABA Holdings Limited, Rearea–Buria Holdings Limited, Rearea Gas Resource Ltd, and other Village Level Organizations [VLOs]."

He said the footbridge will improve access between the two villages, lower transport costs, boost trade and business, and provide quicker access to healthcare and emergency services. It will also strengthen social ties and help grow the local economy.

However, Mr. Holemba warned that vandalism, graffiti, betel nut spitting, and damage to infrastructure like handrails remain ongoing concerns.

He stressed the importance of community awareness and enforcement to address these issues.

Meanwhile, the bridge was designed to withstand all-weather conditions. It will provide a reliable route for movement and commerce.