The operation to repair the section of the Rouna 1/3 raw water pipeline, and related water rationing in Port Moresby, is set to start at 7pm, Friday, 14 August, and is projected to conclude at 7pm on Sunday, 16 August.

The CEO of Water PNG, James Young, and senior engineering managers, provided a final briefing to the Managing Director of Kumul Consolidated Holdings, Professor David Kavanamur, and Water PNG Board Chairman, Meckles Poya, this afternoon.

 Mr Young said substantial planning and preparations have been undertaken to initiate the partial shutdown of the Port Moresby water supply, and the rationing period over the weekend.

“The size and position of this pipeline burst are unprecedented, and while measures are in place to enable a successful repair, it is important that the public is aware that risks in this process remain.

“This is a very old pipeline, installed 65 years ago, in a fragile condition that presents a risk of other leaks occurring during and after the repair operation.

“Repair materials are on-site for the draining of the flooded sinkhole after the water supply has been cut and the pipeline emptied during Friday night into Saturday morning.

“The unknown is what will be discovered once the pipeline is drained and the sinkhole emptied so the damaged area can be physically inspected.

“Due to the high velocity of the water rushing out the pipeline hole, at a likely speed of more than 100 kilometres an hour, a full visual inspection had not been possible with a diver or cameras.

“We anticipate being able to repair almost all potential eventualities with the additional equipment that we have on-site, and this will become clearer once the water is drained.”

Mr Young reiterated that the water supply in Port Moresby will be rationed for the duration of the repairs, and he urged residents and businesses to ensure they have stored water in containers and buckets.

“Once the partial shutdown begins water rationing will be rotated between four zones in the city at the times published in the official public notice that is circulating in the media and is posted at www.waterpng.com.pg 

“To be clear, the partial shutdown will begin on Friday evening at 7pm, 14 August, and anticipated to conclude at 7pm on Sunday, 16 August.

“It is important to note that the Port Moresby General Hospital and the Pacific International Hospital will have uninterrupted water supply for the duration of the repair period as they have a dedicated water connection.

“Water PNG will continue to keep the public informed of progress in the repairs and provided updates for any changes in the scheduled timing for the rationing of water.” ///

 LINK: News Release & Water Rationing Schedule