THE Tagali River at Mt Bosavi, Southern Highlands continues to affect the movement of people and goods to and from Kutubu and Mendi, says community leader Tom Galuvia.
Galuvia said people had been crossing the river by canoes where many lives were lost.
“We built the Kanda bridge cross to allow accessibility but it has to be maintained every three to four months which is a challenge as the Kanda plant takes time to replenish,” he said.
“The plant is also in short supply. Students struggle to cross to attend secondary schools in Kutubu.
“Bosavi president presented a dinghy to the people last year to allow access across the river but a proper bridge will enable access to everyone.”
Galuvia told The National that the Waro-Bosavi road was progressing slowly and urged leaders to build a bridge across the river first.
“Apart from the poor geographical location of the area and no road connectivity, the Tagali River is another challenge.
There is no other way out, we have to cross the river to get to Kutubu.
“This has affects schools as teachers from outside provinces and districts cannot travel in on time and would leave mid-year as going to and from Kutubu to buy basic needs is a challenge.
“All health centres and aid posts have closed operations while a local community health worker continue to provide basic care like children immunisation amid the challenges.”
