The major road construction project by the Niugini Engineering Procurement Services limited (NEPS) along Rakatani Drive at Tokarara in Port Moresby city, faces several challenges.
NEPS Senior Surveyor and Survey Team Leader Mr. Thomas Kesen highlighted to PNG Hausbung on Friday 28th March that the primary obstacle is the unpredictable weather which has already created delays.
Mr. Kesen stressed that Heavy rainfall hinders excavation and drainage work, making it difficult to meet project deadlines. As a result, workers are now pushing forward with an intensive schedule, often working from Sunday to Sunday to recover lost time.
Furthermore, he said that another challenge is managing community concerns. Some residents express frustration over disruptions caused by the construction process, questioning road alterations and drainage placements. While the project team makes efforts to explain the necessity of these developments, he noted that misunderstandings sometimes escalate. To ensure smooth operations, security personnel, including police officers, are present at the site to prevent any interference.
Meanwhile, few positive remarks were made by residents who know the importance of proper safe and secure road and drainage systems for a long-term period, despite the construction process disruption of daily routines in the community.
Mr. Kesen also stressed the importance of community involvement in maintaining the project’s success, urging residents to respect survey markers and construction guidelines, as these markers are critical for ensuring proper road alignment. The new road infrastructure will significantly improve mobility and durability in the area once completed, benefiting everyone in the long term.
With a completion deadline set for July, the team remains committed to overcoming these obstacles.
Mr. Kesen expresses optimism that, despite the challenges, the project will be a valuable asset for the Tokarara community, enhancing both safety and convenience for daily commuters.