Work on Numuru River bypass delayed pending landowner talks

Work is set to begin on a temporary bypass at the Numuru River in Malala, Bogia district, following the collapse of the local bridge last Friday morning.

The steel structure gave way when an overloaded tipper truck carrying gravel attempted to cross towards Bogia. The vehicle belonged to a sub-contractor engaged in maintenance work along the Bogia road network.

Madang Provincial Works Manager Job Kull told NBC News that engineers have already deployed heavy machinery to the site, but progress remains stalled pending negotiations with local landowners.

The Department of Works and Highways is currently negotiating with customary landholders to clear and reopen an old bypass route.

Mr Kull confirmed that actual earthworks will commence as soon as landowners grant formal clearance.

In the interim, light vehicles have been attempting risky crossings along the beachfront during low tide to maintain transport connectivity.