RESIDENTS of at least 14 villages in Kumun-Koboibus Census in Yangoru-Saussia, East Sepik, have welcomed the launch of the construction of the Bubuomu bridge.
The project will cost K2 million and locals are describing the bridge project launched by Yangoru-Saussia MP Richard Maru, as a long-awaited solution to years of transportation challenges.
Maru launched the project on Tuesday, with the bridge expected be completed in three months, it will provide a vital link for communities that have long struggled to cross the river, particularly during periods of heavy rain and flooding.
Community representative Michael Konny said villagers were grateful for the project, noting that the river had been a major obstacle to business activities, market access and children’s education for many years.
“For so long, this river has made life difficult for our people, it has affected our small businesses, sales and our children’s ability to get to school safely,” he said.
Konny said the bridge would bring much-needed relief to the people and improve access to essential services and economic opportunities.
Konny also thanked the local MP for supporting the project and said communities were looking forward to the bridge’s completion.
Local residents Simon Karo said the bridge would be a relief to a junior high school and primary school which were located close to project area.
“I live next to the Bubuomu bridge and for years, I witnessed many students and staff struggle and much cargo lost to this river when flooding and we are so thankful that a bridge would be finally in place,” Karo said.
Meanwhile, Maru urged the schools that would benefit from the bridge to improve and perform well academically.
He also made commitment for that a power project and road works would also be done while the bridge was being built.
He said the scoping for the power project had been completed and it would cost about K5 million to bring electricity supply into the area.
Yangoru-Saussia district development authority also funded a four-in-one classroom building for Pomalmal and Kumbuhun Primary Schools and a second school truck to Pomalmal Assembly of God High School in the Kumun-Koboibus Census area.
