The people of Milne Bay province have celebrated a safe river crossing for commuters with the opening of the Ahioma bailey bridge.
The project is a shared investment by the Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) and the Australian Government under the PNG-Australia Partnership.
Located 7 km from Alotau town on the East Cape Road, the bridge plays a critical role in linking communities to the provincial capital and improving access to education, markets, healthcare and government services.
Completed within three months, the project highlights the enduring partnership between DoWH and the Australian Government and a shared commitment to timely delivery of transport infrastructure that responds to the needs of communities and government in Milne Bay Province.
Minister Counsellor, Economics and Infrastructure, Australian High Commission to PNG, Dr Cate Rogers said:
“Australia is proud that our longstanding partnership with the Department of Works and Highways can deliver practical infrastructure that makes a real difference in people’s daily lives.
“The Ahioma bailey bridge restores safe and reliable access along East Cape Road, which strengthens connectivity, supports inclusive economic growth and ensures no one is left behind.”
DoWH Secretary Gibson Holemba said:
“The Department of Works and Highways is proud to deliver the Ahioma bailey bridge for the people of Milne Bay Province. This project restores a vital link on East Cape Road, ensuring safer and more reliable access to Alotau and essential services.
Working in partnership with the Australian Government, we remain committed to strengthening climate-resilient and inclusive transport infrastructure across Papua New Guinea.”
Currently, Australia’s investments in Milne Bay province include 9 proforma maintenance contracts totalling PGK 9 million and a further PGK 38 million on a long term maintenance project along 127 km of national road on the Magi Highway.
The Australian Government is committed to working in close partnership with DoWH to deliver high-quality, sustainable infrastructure on Papua New Guinea’s national priority roads that supports communities, strengthens connectivity and drives inclusive economic growth.
Ends
Vehicles crossing the now complete Ahioma Pouna Bridge, Alotau, Milne Bay province.
For further information, including access to related materials, please contact the Australian High Commission media team: +675 7090 0100