By Jack Lapauve Jr – EM TV, Port Moresby
Due to the slow release of funds, the Hoskins-Koimumu Road in West New Britain has been left to deteriorate. Initial funding was K4.8 million for the first stage, but government processes has been the reason for delay, especially for work to continue.
Village leaders at Galilo in the Hoskins area of West New Britain are concerned about the falling state of the road. They say no proper sea-walling and the continuous rain experienced in the province has also added to the appalling state of the road. Ward Councilor, Nelson Sege, called on the government to fix and maintain the road or see people suffer.
Local Construction Company, Nivani Limited, has been working on credit basis. The Department of Works owes a balance of K3.8 million to Nivani.
However, the recent visit by Works Minister, Francis Awesa, saw a presentation of K1 million to Nivani for further work and upgrade. Minister Awesa assured that all funding will be released to finish this road project.
But the second stage will require another K5 million to fully seal the road.
West New Britain Governor, Sasindran Muthuvel, says the road is vital but the government has caused further delays in its progress. Governor Muthuvel wants funding to be released, and he also questioned the K10 million funding for Kimbe-Kandrian and Talasea Ring road projects.
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