Field Operations Wing - Key Functions and Responsibilities
1. Regional and Provincial Coordination
The Field Operations Wing operates through four Regional Works Offices
- Southern Region: Overseeing critical projects in provinces such as Gulf, Central, and Western.
- Highlands Region: Managing the expansive road networks of Hela, Enga, and the Highlands Highway.
- Northern Region: Coordinating infrastructure development in Morobe, Madang, and nearby provinces.
- Islands Region: Supporting projects in remote provinces like East New Britain and Manus.
Each regional office supervises 24 Provincial Works Branches, ensuring the implementation of infrastructure projects aligns with the government’s annual and five-year development plans. This decentralized structure enables the Field Operations Wing to respond effectively to regional and community needs.
2. Plant and Transport Division (PTD)
The Plant and Transport Division (PTD) is a cornerstone of the Field Operations Wing, providing the equipment and technical resources necessary for infrastructure delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Leasing, maintaining, and deploying heavy machinery for road construction and maintenance.
- Generating revenue to sustain its operations through plant hire fees.
- Ensuring the availability of equipment for rural and sub-national projects, reducing dependence on external contractors.
Strategic Reforms
- The PTD is exploring corporatization to improve efficiency and enhance service delivery, reducing political interference in equipment allocation. These reforms are expected to increase operational autonomy and accountability.
3. Rural Infrastructure Development
The wing supports the development of essential rural infrastructure, which is critical to enhancing accessibility and service delivery in remote communities.
Key Projects
- Construction of footbridges, jetties, and water supply systems to connect underserved areas.
- Rehabilitation of rural roads to improve access to healthcare, education, and markets.
- Building government facilities to strengthen service delivery at the district and provincial levels.
Collaborative Approach
- The wing engages directly with district and provincial authorities to align infrastructure projects with their local development priorities, ensuring community ownership and relevance.