Ipatas urges goverment to prioritise Enga highway upgrade

Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas has issued a direct challenge to the national government to prioritize the rehabilitation of the Highlands Highway stretch connecting Togoba to the Porgera mine site.

Speaking during today's Parliament sitting, Ipatas said while the nation focuses on major economic drivers in agriculture, mining, and gas, these sectors cannot achieve their expected revenue targets without a reliable road network.

He outlined the Porgera mine’s 30-year contribution to the national purse and the deteriorating state of the province's primary artery.

"Sadly, Mr. Speaker, the roads in Enga Province are not at the standard they should be, considering the Porgera mine’s continued contribution to this nation," Ipatas said.

The governor expressed concern that once the mine’s gold reserves are eventually depleted, the province could be left with little physical evidence of the wealth it generated if infrastructure is not improved now.

Ipatas requested the Works and Highways minister for an urgent directive for the Department of Works Secretary to oversee the upgrade of the road from Togoba to Wabag.

He als urged the department to do a comprehensive upgrading and sealing of the critical section between Wabag and Porgera.

While acknowledging the government's support in establishing healthcare and tertiary education facilities in the province, Ipatas maintained that the road remains the most vital link for the country’s economic health.

In response, the Minister for Works Peter Tsiamalili Jr commended the governor for his advocacy and efforts in maintaining law and order, which he cited as a primary hurdle for development in the region.

The Minister revealed that a dual access strategy for resource-rich areas would soon be developed. He said the recent catastrophic landslide in Mulitaka was a classic example of the dangers of relying on a single access point, which can completely halt economic operations during a disaster.

The Minister has requested a formal submission from the Enga Provincial Government to officially begin the technical assessment and procurement process for the highway upgrades.