by Quinton Alomp – EM TV, Port Moresby
The newly constructed road from Madang to Baiyer in Western Highlands Province is expected to increase the rate of coffee exports from Madang.
Once completed, the road will be frequently used by raw coffee suppliers from Baiyer, Lumusa, Mul and the Kalam speaking people from Middle Ramu, Madang.
Over the years, coffee beans were left to rot in villages. due mainly to the high cost of freight provided by third-level airlines.
Coffee farmers from Baiyer said the new road will make transportation easier and Madang will become their main trading point.
Farmer Mek Ronga said they are hoping the road construction is completed quickly.
Locals though, at this stage, are still unaware of the progress of the roadwork carried out by PNG Defence force engineers.
Paul Paluwa said timber is another product they will be looking to export.
“It’s all planned but our hope is the Madang to Baiyer road, once completed, will [allow us to] make most out of it,” Paul said.
Renewed calls have been made for the National Government to continue funding the road.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=adlSVX-VRzQ%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26wmode%3Dopaque%26showinfo%3D0%26showsearch%3D0%26rel%3D0
