Goilala communities urge government action on deteriorating Tapini Highway

Locals helping vehicles climb the deteriorating road conditions (Image: Supplied)

The people of Goilala are calling on the national government to urgently repair the Tapini Highway as the sections of the 118-kilometre road are now impassable.

The highway, identified as a key 'missing link' under the Connect PNG program, received a total allocation of K20 million, with K5 million released annually to Oceanic Construction Limited for maintenance and upgrades. Yet, heavy rains have caused severe damage, with bridges collapsing and stretches of the road becoming extremely difficult for locals to traverse.

Community leaders are pressing both the Central Provincial Government and the Works and Highways Department to address the critical situation.

The Tapini Highway branches from the Hiritano Highway at Arapokina in Kairuku District, stretching 118km through Kuni LLG to Tapini. The route navigates rugged terrain, mountains, deep valleys, and fast-flowing rivers, making it vital yet vulnerable.

Built shortly after independence by the late Louis Mona during the Chan Government era, the road has survived over 50 years with minimal upgrades. In 2010, it was officially declared a national road by Dr Puka Temu, then Acting Prime Minister, but in the past five years, successive governments have failed to commit sufficient funding to maintain a safe, reliable road.

One of section of the highway damaged by water along the Tapini highway (Image: Supplied)

Locals say the road remains the lifeline of Goilala, connecting communities in the western district to essential services and markets. They are now calling for emergency relief funding to rebuild washed-away bridges and repair critical sections.

Communities also demand clarity on the future of the Connect PNG program in Central Province, urging the government to specify which roads will receive funding.

“Roads are not just infrastructure, they are critical lifelines for communities. Proper maintenance and development are essential for connectivity and service delivery,” a community leader said.

Without immediate intervention, locals fear isolation and disruption of livelihoods will worsen.