Works are underway to seal Buin town roads.
A formal ceremony was held this week to mark the progress of an Australian funded project to seal selected town roads in Buin.
The K4.8 million project is part of Australia’s long running partnership to help maintain Bougainville’s road network.
The town roads in Buin are a vital link connecting communities and businesses. The newly sealed roads will improve all-weather access to Buin Secondary School, residences, shops and essential services.
The project will deliver safer, more reliable roads for the people of Southern Bougainville.
Speaking at the event, local member Timothy Masiu noted that this work was much needed and would provide a catalyst for Buin’s development.
He thanked Australia for its long-term support to Bougainville’s Department of Technical Services.
Pedestrians and motorists have already noticed a significant improvement to the roads as works progress.
The design includes an upgraded PMV stop for the town that will make life easier for the travelling public.
Australian Deputy High Commissioner, Bronte Moules, said the project was consistent with Australia’s long-term commitment to investing in key economic infrastructure in Papua New Guinea.
The project is on schedule to be completed by the middle of the year and complements other major road resealing projects funded by the Australian Government. These include the road from Arakawau to Kieta Port, and Arawa’s town roads.
Work is delivered through small and medium sized local contractors as part of the Papua New Guinea – Australia Transport Sector Support Program.