Kiriwina Goodenough MP, Douglas Tomuriesa, has challenged the Chinese construction company, COVEC, to not only seal the Alotau to East Cape road in Milne Bay, but ensure it lasts for a long time.
Mr. Tomuriesa said the government cannot continue to spend money on the reconstruction of the same projects every year.
Tomuriesa said though the government is investing in the construction of roads and bridges, there are other services that it needs to invest in, like health, tourism and education.
“This is not the first time this road has been sealed; this will be the second or the third time, it will be sealed and I hope the construction company ensures the road lasts,” Tomuriesa said. He made this remarks during the ground breaking ceremony of the Alotau to East Cape road.
In response, Covec’s representative, Brian Hu, said Covec will deliver the desired road and it will do so within two years.
“We are a foreign company but all our employees reside in the country, and we have been in PNG for 21 years,” Hu said.
This project is funded by the World Bank with support from the Asian Development Bank and the Australian Aid.
Representing the Australian government, Ben David said the project is a symbol of the long term friendship between the people of Papua New Guinea and Australia.
“This project is a reflection of the long term friendship without our two countries,’ David said.
Alotau MP, Charles Abel explained that the sealing of the road is an important project for Alotau people, as it will increase economic activities for villagers along the highway.
Though the road is in Alotau district, it will benefit people from other districts in Milne Bay.
