MINISTER for Environment, Conservation and Climate Change and Moresby North-East MP, Hon. John Kaupa, officially opened the overhead footbridge at Erima, 7-Mile, in Port Moresby yesterday, marking a significant milestone in the National Capital District’s efforts to create a safer, more connected and liveable city.
Built by YFIG Group Limited at a cost of K2.3 million, the footbridge was completed in three months and officially opened a month later.
Speaking at the opening, Minister Kaupa said the bridge was built specifically to help students of New Erima Junior High School and the general public cross the busy highway safely and to ease traffic congestion.
“I encourage everyone to make full use of this bridge and to help us promote a culture of safety and feel responsible to take ownership of it. You must look after this infrastructure. This is your money at work, look after it, because it will look after you, your generation, the next generation and the generations coming in the future,” Kaupa said.
He said similar projects are planned for Gordons and 6-Mile in collaboration with other NCD MPs.
Speaking on behalf of the school, Deputy Head Teacher Peter Wemin said New Erima has 72 teachers and almost 4,000 students who are the major beneficiaries of the bridge to cross over the road safely without contributing to cause any traffic.
“It’s almost 13 years since I have been here witnessing two deaths because there was no bridge to help students cross the road safely. Now it is safe to cross and will benefit generations to come,” he said.
NCD City Manager Mr. Frank Ravu said the overhead bridge represents NCDC’s commitment to protecting lives.
“As our city continues to grow, traffic volumes will increase, and the need for safe pedestrian infrastructure becomes even more important. This footbridge has been constructed to provide a safe crossing point for school children, workers, families, market vendors and all members of the community who use this route every day,” Mr Ravu said.
He urged responsible use of the infrastructure.
“Infrastructure alone cannot save lives. People must also choose to use it correctly and responsibly. When you drive, drive to city limits, which is 60 kilometers per hour, drive at that speed so that the infrastructure along the roads can be protected.”
Community representatives thanked the developer, the Minister and the Governor, and urged the Erima community to take ownership of the bridge, not to engage in graffiti or theft, and to look after it for future generations.