WHPG backs PMV sector as key driver of local economy

The Western Highlands Provincial Government [WHPG], under the leadership of Governor Wai Rapa, is championing the role of Public Motor Vehicles [PMVs] as a vital engine for economic activity in Papua New Guinea, particularly in rural and remote areas.

To support PMV operators, the WHPG has implemented a PMV Registration Fee Subsidy Program, covering 70 percent of registration fees for PMVs operating in the province.

The initiative, valued at close to one million kina, is being delivered in partnership with the Motor Vehicle Insurance Limited [MVIL].

Governor Rapa said PMVs play an important role in facilitating trade, connecting rural communities to markets, schools, and healthcare services, and enabling mobility across the province. He said reducing operational costs for PMV operators will help to improve services and promote a more sustainable transport system.

"This program ensures that PMVs can maintain their operations, which are vital in driving the economy forward. It’s about making public transport more affordable and accessible while supporting the people who run it,” Rapa said.

The subsidy program, which began last year with a 50 percent discount, has now increased to a 70 percent reduction in registration fees. So far, more than 200 PMV operators have benefited from the initiative after meeting eligibility requirements outlined by MVIL.

Despite the relief offered by the program, PMV operators in the province continue to face several operational challenges.

Koiya Wak, a PMV operator speaking on behalf of others, welcomed the government’s support but highlighted pressing concerns such as:

•High compensation costs for accidents, especially involving fatalities, where operators are often required to pay thousands of kina and provide livestock. Wak proposed standardizing compensation at K20,000 and 10–20 pigs to ease the financial burden.

•Unregulated operations, with many PMVs still running under white private plates instead of the required blue commercial plates.

•The K50 bosscrew issue, referring to additional informal helpers who impose extra costs on operators beyond the official crew.

Wak also urged the establishment of a proper PMV bus stop in Mt Hagen City to organize routes and reduce operational confusion.

Additionally, he called for the formation of a PMV Association in the province to give operators a unified voice to raise issues and engage with relevant authorities.

“This kind of support from the provincial government isn’t just helping PMV operators, it benefits the entire community that depends on these services daily,” Wak said.

The WHPG’s initiative outlines its commitment to empowering grassroots transport businesses, ensuring economic participation, and maintaining essential public services across the Western Highlands.