By 
Stella Lira
Abandoned Wooden Bridge over Rough Waterscape via Pexels, 2021/September 9th
Meeting their untimely demise, a couple lost their lives whilst crossing a makeshift bridge that suddenly collapsed, reflecting the broader neglect in constructing reliable infrastructure in the province.
A couple who were locals of the Salt Nomane Karamui District of Chimbu Province in Papua New Guinea passed away as they attempted to traverse a footbridge that crosses the flooded Waghi River, which came apart and led them to be swept away by the flood. It was reported that the couple had been on the journey for several days, carrying a heavy bulk of dried coffee beans to be sold in another province. They decided to travel through the Lufa District as it was the shortest path, however, the footbridge that goes over the Waghi River was only made of shrubs. With their combined weight added by the hefty coffee beans, the footbridge could not hold and broke. The couple was quickly carried off by the flood’s current, causing their death and leaving their five children orphans.
A family representative voiced out that this adverse incident could have been avoided if the bridge had been renovated with a well-built structure and durable materials, instead of shrubs. Said footbridge has been set up for more than a decade without any repairs, so it was well past time for its maintenance. This concern reflects the predicament faced by the citizens of Salt Noman Karamui District, as government officials disregarded developing public infrastructure that could facilitate people’s mode of transport with safety.
The tragic deaths of the couple highlight the urgent need to assess the reliability of facilities and to allocate funds to ensure their stability. The occurrence that they encountered serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by the inadequate and poorly managed public works. Apart from placing lives in peril, this shortcoming is restricting the population from enhancing their economic opportunities and accessing basic services, particularly for those living in rural areas. Addressing these challenges calls for national and provincial initiatives to develop infrastructure to circumvent further accidents and improve citizens’ quality of life.
Sources and further readings:
Joe, N. (2025, April 17). Couple killed trying to cross flooded river. Post Courier.
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