Enhancing National and Sub-National Road Networks
The Connect PNG Program is a transformative infrastructure initiative aimed at revitalizing Papua New Guinea’s road and bridge networks to drive socioeconomic development. Below are the key components of the ongoing projects under this ambitious program
1. Sub-National Highways Upgrades
Objective: Rebuild and upgrade 9,000 kilometers of sub-national highways in partnership with local authorities.
Progress:
- Over 1,066 kilometers of roads improved to “good” condition as of 2022 (35% of the target achieved).
- By 2027, an additional 3,000 kilometers are expected to meet the “good” condition standard.
- Investment: K1.5 billion allocated to improve rural road accessibility, benefiting underserved communities and enabling access to markets, service centers, and industrial hubs.
2. Urban Road Development
Objective: Upgrade major arterial roads in key cities, including Mount Hagen, Port Moresby, Kokopo, Lae, and other urban centers, to modern urban standards.
Current Contracts (Total Value: K450 million):
- K380 million for Lae-Nadzab 4-lane sections 2a and 2b.
- K50 million for safety improvements on Mount Hagen's 4-lane roads.
- K70 million for Lae city’s concrete standard roads.
- K20 million for Hagen city roads.
- K10 million for the Kokopo airport road.
3. Bridge Infrastructure Development
Objective: Replace and upgrade long-overdue bridge structures on major highways and rural roads to improve connectivity and safety.
Progress:
- Completed 165 of the planned 2,000 bridges on national routes.
- Design finalized for 71 key bridges (totaling 591 meters) on the Highlands Highway.
- Constructed 2,000 meters of bridges for rural roads, improving access for rural populations by 20%.
- Investment: K1 billion committed from 2023 to 2027 (K200 million annually).
These projects collectively aim to enhance connectivity, improve safety, and unlock economic opportunities for both urban and rural communities across Papua New Guinea. Through these efforts, the Connect PNG Program is setting the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future.
