Flood-prone crossings disrupt travel along Vanimo as heavy rain hits parts of West Sepik

Heavy rainfall in West Sepik has once again highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by commuters along the Vanimo West Coast Highway, with floodwaters covering several low-level culvert crossings and bringing traffic to a standstill.

During periods of heavy rain, floodwaters quickly rise above the culvert crossings, making it impossible for most vehicles to pass safely.

Public Motor Vehicles [PMVs], private vehicles, government transport, and freight trucks are often forced to wait for hours until water levels subside.

The situation also affects school children, workers, patients travelling to health facilities, and families who rely on the highway for daily travel.

Residents say the problem has persisted for many years, despite repeated calls for temporary Bailey Bridges to be installed at flood-prone locations.

While commitments have been made in the past, communities continue to experience the same disruptions whenever heavy rain occurs.

The issue has gained renewed attention as the Vanimo–Daunda–Wutung Road is currently being upgraded under the Connect PNG Program and is now recognised as part of Papua New Guinea's National Highway network.

It also connects PNG to Indonesia, making it an important economic highway.

Local residents believe that installing temporary Bailey Bridges at critical flood crossings would provide a practical solution, ensuring safe and reliable access while permanent bridge infrastructure is planned and constructed.

They say reliable road access is essential for the movement of people, goods, emergency services, and economic activity.

Photos captured during the latest flooding show commuters waiting beside stranded vehicles, while some motorists cautiously attempt to drive through floodwaters in order to continue their journey.

As work on the Connect PNG project progresses, many residents are calling on the National Government and relevant authorities to prioritise temporary bridge solutions to improve year-round accessibility along one of West Sepik Province's most important transport corridors.