The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Timor-Leste participated in a groundbreaking ceremony in Baucau to officially mark the beginning of construction to upgrade 58 kilometers of the Baucau–Venilale–Viqueque national road corridor.
The Government of Timor-Leste received a loan of $44 million from ADB for the purpose of rehabilitating and maintaining the national roads in Timor-Leste. Rehabilitation and maintenance of these two road sections will generate employment opportunities to communities. Almost 26,500 households and their adjacent sub-districts and villages will benefit directly and indirectly from this improvement of the roads. The new roads will also provide better access to markets and economic services.
The Baucau–Viqueque Highway Project will boost Timor-Leste’s economic activities, reduce travel times, and open access to markets, schools, and clinics. The project is making the roads safer and more resilient to the effects of climate change.
“ADB is a long-standing partner of Timor-Leste, particular in the area of infrastructure development,” said ADB Country Director for Timor-Leste Mr. Paolo Spantigati. “Strengthening road connectivity is widely recognized as a key factor in creating jobs, increasing agricultural productivity, and reducing poverty.”
The project is preparing a comprehensive strategy and plan for road maintenance in close coordination with the government and other development partners. The Baucau–Viqueque Highway Project is expected to be completed in 2022.
Original source: ADB
Published on 09 August 2019
