Zumin bridge opens in Markham

Zumim Bridge was officially opened on Monday in the Markham District of Morobe Province, marking another milestone under the government’s Connect PNG program.

The K20 million bridge is part of 34 bridges being constructed nationwide through the Connect PNG initiative aimed at improving transport and connectivity.

Prime Minister James Marape, who officiated at the opening ceremony, called on communities living along the highway to be smart about managing their land and discouraged the selling of land along the road corridor. His remarks follow a K10 million pledge to Morobe Province to support land mobilisation.

Mr Marape said landowners along the highway must properly register their land and work with the government to develop it.

“We have a plan in place to facilitate this, which the Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso has already started with the Roku people in Central Province, who have benefitted, and we would want to do the same for those landowners along this highway,” Mr Marape said.

He further elaborated on the importance of the land mobilisation program, saying the Pangu-led government has plans to assist traditional landowners across the country. He added that a policy on land mobilisation will be launched during the upcoming Pangu convention.

Deputy Prime Minister and Lae MP John Rosso highlighted the importance of the national highway, describing it as a lifeline for nearly four million people who depend on the road network.

“The Connect PNG program is not just about roads, but about connecting people and linking other services such as airports, seaports and other infrastructure, which benefits the country as a whole,” Mr Rosso said.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Marape also announced a commitment of K2 million to support the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene [WASH] program in Markham and the development of Zumim Primary School.

The funding will help improve access to clean water and sanitation for communities in the area.