Emergency repair works are underway at the Aita Wet Crossing in Bougainville following severe flooding linked to Cyclone Maila, which disrupted access for surrounding communities.

The restoration effort, supported by the Australian Government, aims to reconnect residents to essential services, including schools, health facilities, and local markets, while also improving the crossing’s resilience against future climate-related disasters.

Floodwaters at the crossing have now been receded to safer levels, allowing limited four-wheel-drive access. In the meantime, authorities have established a temporary pedestrian crossing approximately 200 metres downstream to ensure communities can continue moving safely through the area.

Work crews are currently redirecting the river away from the damaged section of the crossing to reduce pressure on the site and prevent further erosion. Teams on the ground are rebuilding the crossing and stabilizing the surrounding riverbanks to better withstand heavy rainfall and flooding in the future.

Two excavators are being used during the operation, including an additional machine brought in to accelerate repair works and improve response times.

The project is being delivered through the Transport Sector Support Program Phase 3 in partnership with the Department of Works and Highways PNG and the Bougainville Department of Infrastructure and Utilities.

As part of the broader initiative, a climate resilience and vulnerability assessment will also be conducted across Bougainville to help strengthen transport infrastructure against future disasters and changing weather patterns.

Officials say contractors are working closely with local authorities and communities to respond quickly to changing river conditions and restore safer access as soon as possible.

Once completed, the upgraded crossing is expected to provide more reliable transport access for residents, businesses, and service providers across the region.

The Australian Government says its continued partnership with the Government of Papua New Guinea and the Autonomous Bougainville Government reflects a shared commitment to improving transport infrastructure and strengthening community resilience.