Key Programs Driving the Vision of the Department of Works and Highways (DoWH)

The Department of Works and Highways (DoWH) is driving Papua New Guinea’s infrastructure transformation through a range of strategic programs designed to enhance connectivity, promote economic growth, and build resilient infrastructure. These programs align with national development strategies, including Vision 2050, the Medium-Term Development Plan IV (MTDP IV), and the Connect PNG Development Plan. Each initiative emphasizes sustainability, inclusivity, and operational efficiency.

1. Connect PNG Development Program (2020-2040)

Objective: Achieve 100% national road connectivity by 2040 to transform Papua New Guinea’s socio-economic landscape.

Key Features

Network Expansion: Development of 14 economic corridors, including the Baiyer-Madang Corridor, Highlands Highway, and the Kimbe-Kokopo Highway.

Phase 1 Targets by 2027:

• Construct 2,500 km of new roads and rehabilitate 4,000 km of existing roads.
• Complete 10 national bridges, 60 rural bridges, and initiate 2 railways.
• Implement missing link roads in priority areas​​.

Budget: Projected K7.2 billion investment for Phase 1.

Sustainability: Incorporates climate-resilient designs and environmentally friendly construction practices​​.

Impact

• Reduces transport costs, enhances connectivity, and stimulates regional trade.
• Provides rural communities with better access to markets, healthcare, and education​​.

2. National Road Network Strategy (NRNS)

Objective: Maintain and upgrade Papua New Guinea’s 8,740 km National Road Network to ensure safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation.

Key Components

• Maintenance First Policy: Prioritizes preservation of existing roads to extend their lifespan.
• Strategic Focus: Achieve 75% of roads in good condition by 2027, emphasizing economic corridors and priority highways.
• Integration: Aligns with the Connect PNG Development Plan to expand and improve strategic road links​​.

3. Sub-National Road Network Strategy (SNRNS)

Objective: Enhance rural connectivity by improving provincial and district roads, enabling equitable access to essential services.

Key Activities

• Technical Support: Assists local governments with infrastructure delivery.
• Capacity Building: Provides training to improve project implementation at sub-national levels.
• Plant and Transport Services Division (PTD): Offers machinery for construction and maintenance in areas lacking private contractors​​.

4. Building and Design Standards Program

Objective: Develop and enforce resilient, inclusive, and modern infrastructure standards for roads, bridges, and public buildings.

Initiatives

• Flood-Resistant Bridge Designs: To withstand extreme weather conditions.
• Road Safety Policies: Implements audits and improved safety measures.
• Building Standards: Ensures compliance with environmental and disaster-resilient construction regulations​​.

5. Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Development

Objective: Address climate challenges by integrating sustainability into all projects.

Approaches

• Conducting Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) for all major projects.
• Incorporating climate-resilient designs to mitigate risks like floods and landslides.
• Promoting renewable energy systems for road lighting and public buildings​​.

6. Contractor Capacity Development Program

Objective: Enhance local contractor capabilities to foster self-sufficiency and economic growth.

Key Actions

• Competency Assessments: Register and classify contractors to identify gaps and provide targeted support.
• Training Initiatives: Improve skills in construction and maintenance.
• Long-Term Contracts: Align contracts with capacity-building goals to ensure sustained growth​​.

7. Governance and Transparency Initiatives

Objective: Strengthen institutional frameworks to ensure accountability, efficiency, and compliance.

Highlights

• Establishing independent review committees for project monitoring.
• Implementing robust financial management systems to ensure efficient resource allocation.
• Strengthening internal compliance through regular audits and evaluations​​.

Why These Programs Matter

These programs serve as the backbone of DoWH’s mission to

• Empower Communities: By connecting remote areas to essential services.
• Drive Economic Growth: Through enhanced trade routes and reduced logistical barriers.
• Promote Sustainability: Ensuring infrastructure investments withstand environmental and economic challenges.



Together, these initiatives reflect DoWH’s unwavering commitment to building a resilient, inclusive, and prosperous Papua New Guinea. For further inquiries or updates, contact info@dwh.gov.pg.