|
Non classifiedProject Information
Sustainable Highlands Highway Investment Program, Tranche 1
|
$ 31.35 Cr
$ 313.50 Mn
|
23-Aug-2017
|
|
PID : 11524
Not Classified-Papua New Guinea
|
|
Description |
The Highlands region of Papua New Guinea (PNG) consists of seven landlocked provinces where approximately 40% of the population resides, most of whom are involved in rural smallholder agricultural production. Aside from abundant and underemployed labor resources, the region is endowed with agricultural and mineral resources which serve as an engine of growth for the national economy. Characterized by relative high levels of agricultural production of fresh produce and cash crops, mainly coffee, tea, and cocoa, the region contributes a third of the national gross domestic product; while the region's mineral and petroleum resources account for nearly 80% of national exports. The 1,200 km long 2-lane national Highlands Highway is the lifeline for the Highlands region connecting 1,800 km of regional and feeder roads and servicing the region's people particularly those in the rural hinterland. The highway traverses the Highlands region connecting it to the coastal provinces and the country's main port in Lae. |
|
Project Rationale and Linkage to Country/Regional Strategy |
Access to basic services and the movement of goods and people is heavily reliant on the Highlands Highway. The mountainous terrain, poor highway conditions owing to a lack of systematic and consistent maintenance, coupled with washouts and landslides common during the rainy season make the highway unreliable and impassable at times. With climate change the frequency of extreme rain events are projected to increase. At present, more than 70% of the highway is in fair or poor condition, while for 90% of the road length, the safety rating for vehicle occupants and pedestrians is two star and below. In its current state, the road conditions pose serious road safety hazards to users and pedestrians, with levels of fatalities and injuries far in excess of comparable countries in Asia and the Pacific. High-potential agricultural products from the region bear high trade costs, limiting access to domestic and international markets. Poor road conditions and lack of adequate transport accessibility and services infrastructure such as bus stations and rest stops, and absence of logistic facilities for agricultural products restrict the development of value chains needed for perishable and high value products. Given the preponderance of rural population involved in agricultural livelihood activities, the present condition of the Highlands Highway is a major constraint hindering the region's future social and economic development and opportunities for sustainable and inclusive growth. |
|
Impact |
Increased opportunity for equality and prosperity in rural areas (Development Strategic Plan, 2010-2030)
Attainment of well-integrated, safe, affordable, and financially and environmentally sustainable transport systems that efficiently serve the economy and people of PNG (National Transport Strategy, 2014-2030)
Improved access to health and education, and living standards of the people of PNG (National Strategy for Responsible Sustainable Development for Papua New Guinea)
|
|
|
