Wamena — The Papua Highland Provincial Government has placed the acceleration of repairs on the 61-kilometer segment of the Jayapura–Wamena Trans-Papua Road as a critical priority to improve regional connectivity and reduce high logistics costs. The emphasis was conveyed by Papua Highland Governor John Tabo, referring to the severely damaged stretch running from the Mamberamo River Bridge to Elelim in Yalimo District.
Governor Tabo explained that the condition of the road has long hindered the movement of four-wheel and six-wheel vehicles transporting food supplies and construction materials to Wamena. He stressed that improving this vital land route is essential to shortening travel times and ensuring smoother distribution flows.
He further noted that the slow pace of logistics due to the poor road conditions has contributed significantly to the high prices of basic goods across the Papua Highlands region. Tabo expressed optimism that the rehabilitation of this 61-kilometer section would have a major impact on reducing inflation, as goods could reach the highlands faster and at lower transportation costs.
The central government, through the state budget (APBN), has designated this road project as a national priority. Tabo welcomed the support, saying that the acceleration plan by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing (PUPR) would open new economic opportunities while improving access to essential services for local communities.
He also emphasized that completing the improvement of this road would not only ease the distribution route from Jayapura to Wamena but also strengthen the connectivity between coastal and highland regions.
According to Tabo, reliable road infrastructure is a foundation for equitable development and better welfare for the people of the Papua Highlands.
