CYCLONE MAILA DAMAGES PNG POWER INFRASTRUCTURE

TROPICAL Cyclone Maila in the last 2 days, has brought down transmission and distribution lines in Madang, Morobe, Kimbe, and East New Britain, while flooding at Warangoi, Lake Hargy, and Ru Creek hydro stations has forced temporary shutdowns.

These impacts have caused widespread outages, with most customers in affected areas expected to remain without supply until restoration work can be completed.

PNG Power Chief Technical Officer, Tony Koiri, confirmed that the teams are working tirelessly, repairing fallen lines, clearing debris, and maintaining operations at critical sites in Madang, Morobe, Kimbe, and East New Britain to reconnect communities.

He adds that despite the dangerous conditions, PPL staff are maintaining operations at critical sites such as the Warangoi Dam, while also repairing fallen lines and clearing storm debris.

Koiri says safety remains the top priority, and is urging the public to stay away from fallen powerlines and allow crews to carry out their work.

PNG Power Ltd further advises customers across multiple provinces impacted by strong winds and heavy rains connected to of the imminent likelihood of being without electricity supply for some time, as crews progressively restore lines damaged by strong winds and flooding.