Roads & Bridges Program
Road & Bridges: Unlocking Regional Connectivity via Connect PNG with Road Tolling
The Ihu Special Economic Zone (ISEZ) is poised for a surge in growth, thanks to the transformative Connect PNG program. This national road and bridge program, with an innovative road tolling model, is strategically designed to unlock the economic potential of the ISEZ and the water Gulf Province by establishing a vital east-west transportation network.
Connect PNG: Bridging the Divide with Road Tolling
The program consists of six key sectors, meticulously planned to enhance regional connectivity. Here's a breakdown highlighting the tolling aspect:
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Sector 1: Kerema Bay Bridge (2km) - East: This bridge construction serves as the program's cornerstone, bridging the Kerema Bay and laying the foundation for the entire east-west network. Tolling model will be implemented on this sector and extend throughout the entire route to Purari (Sectors 2-5).
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Sector 2: Petoi-Vailala Road (43km) - East to West: Upgrading this existing road provides a vital link between Petoi in the east and Vailala in the west. The road tolling model will apply to this sector, ensuring sustainable maintenance and future improvements.
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Sector 3: Vailala River Bridge (200m) - West: Construction of this bridge eliminates a major obstacle along the westbound route, ensuring seamless travel across the Vailala River and fostering regional connectivity. Tolling on this sector will contribute to its upkeep and future development.
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Sector 4: Ihu-Muro Road (20.5km) - North-South (within Kikori District): The secured funding for this north-south road strengthens internal connectivity within the Kikori District. While not directly part of the east-west route, this sector may be included in the future tolling model depending on final program design.
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Sector 5: Muro-Kaumea (Purari) (45.5km) - Potential Future Extension (West): A feasibility study has been completed for this potential future westbound extension, paving the way for reaching Kaumea in the Upper Purari region and further solidifying regional integration. Tolling will likely be implemented on this future extension if constructed.
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Sector 6: Muro to Aivei Port (10.5km) - North-South (linking to future port): This newly identified north-south section connects Muro to the upcoming Aivei Port facility. The tolling model may or may not apply to this sector depending on final program designed and traffic flow.
Beyond the Main Roads:
While Sector 1-6 represent the core infrastructure development under Connect PNG, additional smaller roads are planned to further enhance connectivity within the region. These are yet to be officially listed.
Benefits
The Connect PNG program, with its focus on ISEZ regional connectivity and the implementation of a road tolling model, offers a multitude of benefits:
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Sustainable Infrastructure Development: Tolling revenue will be used for ongoing maintenance and future improvement of the Kerema to Purari route, ensuring its long-term usability.
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Economic Growth: Improved regional connections will attract investment, stimulate trade, and create new economic opportunities throughout the Gulf Province.
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Social Development: Better transportation links will improve access to education, healthcare, and other essential services for local communities.
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A More Unified Gulf Province: Connect PNG strengthens the ties between eastern and western regions, fostering a more cohesive and prosperous Gulf Province.
ISEZ: A Hub in a Connected Region
By investing in the Connect PNG program, the ISEZ is strategically positioning itself as a central hub within a well-connected region. This improved accessibility, along with the implementation of a road tolling model, will:
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Attract Investment: The ISEZ will become a more attractive destination for businesses, stimulating economic growth and job creation.
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Empower Local Communities: Improved connectivity will connect local communities to economic opportunities within the ISEZ and beyond.
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Position the Gulf Province for the Future: The Connect PNG program and the ISEZ will solidify the Gulf Province's position as a key player in Papua New Guinea's economic development.
The Ihu Special Economic Zone and the Connect PNG Program are working together to unlock the full potential of the Gulf Province. By establishing a robust east-west transportation network with a road tolling mode, they are laying the foundation for a brighter, more prosperous, and sustainable future for the entire region.