CRITICAL WATER REPAIRS HALTED BY BEHORI BLOCKADE; K5.5m DEMAND

THE planned partial water shutdown to allow for critical water supply repairs for Port Moresby have been delayed after Behori landowners blockaded access to the Rouna 1 and 3 pipeline site, demanding K5.5 million.

Water PNG Chairman Meckles Poya confirmed engineers were prevented from carrying out planned works, despite earlier cooperation where landowners were paid K500,000 to prepare access roads and drainage.

He described the blockade and threats as a setback that jeopardises water and sanitation for nearly a million people in Port Moresby and Central Province.

Water PNG had advised of a partial shutdown from July 31 to August 2, urging residents to conserve water. However, the blockade has thrown preparations into uncertainty.

Chairman Poya stressed that under the National Water Supply and Sanitation Act, Water PNG has full authority to access pipeline infrastructure. While seeking a peaceful resolution, he warned the government may resort to the Essential Services Act to enforce the law if necessary.

Meantime,  Water PNG has warned that with each passing day, 10 million litres of water is lost, increasing the risk of a major pipeline collapse. If the pipeline fails, Port Moresby could face severe rationing for months, especially during the approaching El Niño period.

Chairman Meckles Poya acknowledged the Behori people’s long-standing support over six decades, noting they had never previously disrupted water supply.

He said Water PNG is committed to finding a peaceful and amicable solution to the current blockade.

The public and businesses will continue to be updated as more information becomes available on this critical issue.