Poahom Bridge and then the Bualu Bridge that run over the Situm River in the Nawaeb District in the Morobe Province Situm River will undergo major repair works with recommendations done from site reports. This was the advice from the Local MP Theo Pelgen, after he visited the flooded Situm River and bridges leading into the area. The riverbanks had flooded during the last past days due to the heavy rainfall experienced all throughout Lae City and Morobe Province. He was accompanied by Nawaeb District technical team (Engineering Team from Allied Group Limited). Project Engineer Hamuel Gena explained that the two bridges will undergo major repair works with recommendations done from site reports. “The two bridges will be upgraded with steel reinforcements and other technical equipment to ensure they are up to standard and quality for usage.” The Engineer explained that the bridges will be reinforced, and this will help the bridge withstand the impact of high tides and flood levels. “By doing so, structural damages will be prevented where the bridge will be structurally stabled in order to make it accessible for use at all times.” The long-standing timber logs that have been used as decks for the Bualu Bride will be replaced with steel decks and steel rails will be installed to prevent accidents. “Gabion baskets will be built on each side of the bridge at the up-stream and also at each approach of the bridge in order to strengthen the abutments from being washed out or damaged during high tides.” Structural components on both brides that are deformed or damaged will be replaced with new ones and the bridges will also be painted over to give a new look to road users. MP Pelgen has seen firsthand the extent of the flooding and has assured the locals that construction of a new 300-meter bridge will begin commencing next month, to provide the safest avenue for travelling public and vehicles into Labuta LLG. “The river will be diverted back to its original path, so the diversions will relief the nearby villages and houses that have already been destroyed with the river running into the area when flooding happens.” “The act of river flowing when flooding is a natural disaster and therefore it is unfortunate for the people to lose their homes and gardens.” MP Pelgen further assured the locals that relief will soon come after the completion of these works.