THE Morobe Provincial Government has delivered a major infrastructure milestone with the opening of the new 75-metre Busu Bailey Bridge, restoring an important connection for communities in Wain-Erap Rural LLG and surrounding areas.
The new bridge was officially opened on Saturday, 8th August, following its construction at a total cost of K9.5 million by the Morobe Provincial Government.
The project follows the destruction of the previous Busu River crossing in October 2023, when the ferocious Busu River washed away the bridge, severely disrupting transportation, access to markets and essential services for communities in the area.
The initial K5 million for reconstruction was allocated under the leadership of the late Morobe Governor, Hon. Luther Wenge, following the destruction of the bridge.
Morobe Governor Hon. Rainbo Paita continued the initiative by allocating an additional K4.5 million, bringing the total investment by the Morobe Provincial Government to K9.5 million and ensuring the completion of the new bridge.
Governor Paita said the completion of the Busu Bridge demonstrates the provincial government’s commitment to restoring vital infrastructure and reconnecting communities affected by natural disasters.
“This bridge is more than steel and engineering. It reconnects people, families and communities. It restores access and creates opportunities for our people to move their goods, access services and participate in the local economy,” Governor Paita said.
He also acknowledged the foresight and initial commitment of the late Governor Luther Wenge, whose K5 million allocation provided the foundation for the reconstruction of the bridge.
Governor Paita extended his appreciation to the Morobe Provincial Administration for its coordination and support throughout the implementation of the project.
He also thanked the Nawaeb District Development Authority (Nawaeb DDA), the Nawaeb District Administration, and Nawaeb DDA Chairman and Nawaeb MP Hon. Theo Pelgen for their cooperation and support in facilitating the project and ensuring that the needs of the affected communities remained a priority.
Special acknowledgement was also given to the Morobe Provincial Works Team, engineers, technical officers, contractors and workers who contributed their expertise and efforts towards the successful completion of the bridge.
Governor Paita said the successful delivery of the project demonstrates the importance of cooperation between the Morobe Provincial Government, Provincial Administration, District Development Authorities, district administrations, technical teams and local communities.
He further thanked the traditional leaders and people of the Busu and Wain-Erap areas for their patience and cooperation during the period of disruption and construction.
The new Busu Bridge will provide a safer and more reliable crossing for local communities and road users, while supporting the movement of agricultural produce, essential goods and services.
For the people of Wain-Erap and surrounding communities, the opening represents the restoration of an important lifeline that was lost when the Busu River destroyed the previous crossing in 2023.
The Morobe Provincial Government remains committed to investing in critical infrastructure that connects communities, supports economic activity and improves access to essential services across the province.
The Busu Bridge is a bridge to renewed connectivity, opportunity and development for the people of Nawaeb and Morobe Province.