The collapse of the Aumea Bridge has disrupted businesses, including Ramu NiCo, and cut off a key section of the Madang–Lae–Highlands Highway.

Authorities are building a temporary wet crossing to restore traffic while plans to rebuild the bridge are underway. The interim crossing is expected to ease movement for commuters, freight operators, and local businesses affected by the disruption.

Nevertheless, police are urging drivers to take care when using the temporary Yanamu Bypass and wet river crossing while the main bridge is being rebuilt.

Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Superintendent Robert Baim said the bypass is for light vehicles only.

“The priority is to restore access and keep people and goods moving,” he said. “Police resources are stretched. Please follow safety advice to protect everyone.”

Baim warned that cargo trucks and other vehicles must check the river carefully before crossing and avoid attempting it if unsure. Crossing at night is strongly discouraged as the river can change course and debris may trap vehicles. Trucks reaching the crossing after dark are advised to return to Ramu Sugar and wait until daylight.

Police say these measures are crucial to protect lives, vehicles, and cargo while construction continues.

Meanwhile, police have raised concerns over reports that landowners and settlers in the area demanded payments before allowing work on the bypass and wet crossing to continue.

Madang Provincial Police Commander, Superintendent Robert Baim, strongly condemned the alleged demands.

“If these allegations are true, such demands are unacceptable,” he said. “Public infrastructure must not be used to pressure authorities. Proper channels must be followed, and the public must not be held at ransom.”

He added that anyone attempting to disrupt the bypass or wet crossing operations would face legal consequences.