THE collapse of the Kagua Bridge in Aiya Local Level Government (LLG) in Kagua Erave district, Southern Highlands Province, has sparked urgent calls for national government intervention, with over 40, 000 residents now cut off from essential services and economic activities.
The Kagua Bridge, which has stood for decades, is a crucial link along the Gulf–Southern Highlands Highway (Agiru Highway)—one of Papua New Guinea’s designated Economic Corridors—and forms part of the proposed Kewabi Highway under the Connect PNG Policy Initiative.
Local advocate and concerned leader Loma Pamea has issued a heartfelt appeal to the government, urging immediate action through the 2025 National Budget Emergency Intervention Programs.
“This bridge is not just a structure—it’s a lifeline,” Pamea said. “Its collapse has severely disrupted the livelihoods of tens of thousands in Aiya LLG and beyond.”
The bridge was also identified as a key infrastructure asset under the Kagua-Erave Five-Year Development Plan, launched by Prime Minister James Marape in December 2023. The plan includes the upgrading and sealing of the road between Kagua Station and Sumia, of which the Kagua Bridge is a major component.
Despite the bridge’s significance and its presence in various development strategies, no formal action has yet been taken by local authorities or the Southern Highlands Provincial Government.
Community members have been sharing photos and updates on social media for weeks, expressing growing frustration over the lack of response.
The deterioration of the bridge was accelerated by harsh weather and a recent earthquake, according to reports. Its complete collapse has made travel impossible for residents who rely on it for school, healthcare, trade, and access to government services.
Pamea is calling on the National Government to treat the issue as a national infrastructure emergency.
“The people of Kagua-Erave deserve better. We need the bridge restored—urgently—so our people can move, trade, and live with dignity,” he said.
Residents are now awaiting confirmation from Port Moresby on whether the Kagua Bridge will be included in the 2025 fiscal infrastructure priorities.