On behalf of the Opposition block, MP for Ambae, Jay Ngwele, has questioned the government in Parliament over the slow progress in clearing the damaged road leading to Port Vila’s main wharf following last year’s 7.4 magnitude earthquake.

Ngwele said it has been almost a year since large stones and debris fell onto the wharf road, yet it remains uncleared, affecting transport, business costs and the rising cost of living.

“Through the earthquake last year, the stones that fell on the wharf road are still there. It’s almost one year and we have not cleared it. The cost of living is increasing and shop prices are rising. When are we going to remove these stones and reopen the road?” Ngwele asked.

In response, Minister for Infrastructure Xavier Harry said preparations for the road works are progressing, and a contract should be signed before the end of this month.

“The CDB will sit, and the paper will be ready for the council next week. Ten days after that decision, we expect a contract to be signed. Hopefully, work will begin before the end of this year,” Minister Harry said.