The new Teouma Bridge, built to be stronger and more resilient than before, was officially opened tyesterday by Prime Minister Jotham Napat and Japan’s Ambassador to Vanuatu, Okuda Naohisa.

The previous bridge was badly damaged by Cyclone Pam in 2015 and subsequent disasters, with heavy flooding at times making it unusable for nearly two months.

Ambassador Okuda said the new structure was designed to endure severe cyclones and flooding:

“This new bridge is stronger than the first one and can last against big cyclones and floods. It is also higher, making it safer during floods and allowing the river to flow properly.”

The project, valued at nearly VT2 billion, was funded by the Government of Japan and constructed by CTI Engineering Co., Ltd beginning in 2024.

The Teouma Bridge is a key link connecting Port Vila to major food supplies from farms in South East Efate.

Minister of Public Utilities Xavier Harry highlighted the bridge’s economic and social importance:

“This bridge will help our farmers from Eton, Rentapau and Teouma to access markets more easily, support emergency response, tourism development and increase the value of surrounding land.”

Prime Minister Napat thanked the Government of Japan for its continuous support, stressing the reliability of Japanese-built projects. He also urged the public to use new infrastructure responsibly:

“The government builds infrastructure like this to serve our people. Please use it with care. It is not meant for accidents, but to provide better services. Drive responsibly.”

The opening ceremony was attended by the Minister of Finance, the Speaker of Parliament, the Opposition Leader, the Shefa Province President, councillors and other government officials.

Trucks and vehicles will begin using the new bridge from today.