Commuters from Vanimo to Aitape get left high and dry on the banks of a river for three days, some surviving on only water from a nearby stream.

Rainbrum River located along the inland highway route from Aitape to Vanimo is one of the rivers that has been a hazard for travelers along this road for quite a while.

During flooding it is impossible for vehicles to pass. And anyone who took their chances to cross usually risked themselves getting swept downriver with passengers thrown overboard and the vehicles badly damaged.

Recently a fleet of 6 vehicles in total, carrying passengers as well as cargo travelling from Vanimo to Aitape, were left stranded on one side of the river for three days, surviving on whatever means they could while waiting for the river to subside.

Due to continuous shortage of food supply in Aitape, people have sought to buying food in bulk either for sale or consumption from Vanimo and Wewak.

And the only way to get across is to pay K50 to the operators of the Vanimo-Jaya bull dozers to tow vehicles across.

In addition the non-existence of airline services and for months no regular shipping has also resulted in food and other necessities gradually becoming scarce.

Where is the efficiency in the provision of good service delivery? Why are those in authority acting blind or keeping quiet while the people are suffering? There is great need for improvement, less talk and more action.