A new bulldozer has arrived at Satomok camp, strengthening ongoing road construction and maintenance work across Wau Waria district in Morobe province.

The machine is the latest addition to the fleet operated by the Wau Waria District Development Authority, which says the equipment will help keep rural roads open and improve access for remote communities.

Over the past four years, more than 147 kilometres of road have been constructed in the district.

Officials say the focus is now shifting toward maintenance, as completed roads need regular grading to remain usable, especially during heavy rain.

The new bulldozer will be deployed for rehabilitation works on the Watabung and Wara Kawar sections, before moving into patrol grading towards the River Biaru corridor.

Member for Wau Waria Marsh Narewec, said the arrival of the machine at Satomok camp marks an important step in keeping works moving on the ground.

“The new machine just arrived here in camp Satomok,” he said. “It will help us continue the rehabilitation and maintenance works so the road remains open for our people.”

He said maintaining the road is just as important as building it, because rural communities depend on it daily for health care, schooling, markets and transport.

However, parts of the road network remain under pressure from weather and river damage.

Sections between Wisini and Taurins village along the River Biaru have recently been washed away, cutting access for nearby communities.

Engineers have previously warned that the area is unstable and recommended a bypass route further from the riverbank to reduce repeated damage.

Despite the setbacks, road crews continue rehabilitation and grading works across the district, aiming to restore reliable access for rural families who rely heavily on the road for everyday survival and services.