OTML ACCELERATES INDONESIA SUPPLY ROUTE AMID LOW FLY RIVER WATER LEVELS

CAPTION: Alice Pit-Butmambin-Yetetkun Road

BY KENNY ROMANUS

OK Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) says it remains committed to maintaining full mining operations despite ongoing disruptions to cargo transport caused by the critically low water levels along the Fly River during the current El Niño-driven dry season.

In a media statement issued last month, OTML Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Kedi Ilimbit said the company has activated contingency measures to safeguard the continuous supply of fuel, food and other essential materials required for its operations.

He explained that the extended dry spell has caused water levels on the Fly River to fall significantly, preventing cargo vessels from reaching Kiunga and disrupting the mine’s conventional supply chain.

To address the challenge, OTML is expediting plans to establish an alternative supply route through the proposed Butmambin Border Post with Indonesia. The company intends to use the Alice Pit-Butmambin-Yetetkun Access Road to move fuel, food and other critical supplies from Indonesia into the Ok Tedi Mine.

Mr. Ilimbit said the current situation demonstrates the strategic value of the proposed border infrastructure, which is expected to provide a dependable alternative logistics corridor whenever river transport is affected by low water levels.

He also reassured employees and stakeholders that mining operations will continue without interruption throughout the dry season.

“There will be no layoffs, and our operations will continue as planned,” Mr. Ilimbit said.

The prolonged dry conditions have impacted communities across Western Province, with businesses experiencing delays in receiving essential goods as cargo vessels struggle to navigate the increasingly shallow Fly River.

OTML said accelerating preparations for the Butmambin border route forms part of its long-term strategy to strengthen supply chain resilience and minimise disruptions caused by climate-related events.

The company added that it will continue working closely with the National Government, relevant state agencies and Indonesian authorities to fast-track border arrangements and ensure the uninterrupted movement of essential supplies to the Ok Tedi Mine.