Alotau port major project

 THE K45 million port development programme in Alotau represents one of the major capital investments made by PNG Ports Corporation Ltd (PNGPCL) this year.

PNGPCL said work on the Alotau Port development is progressing well and should be completed on time for the first cruise liner expected to berth in November.

PNGPCL has engaged Savcor Art Pty Ltd and Curtain Bros Ltd and the companies have begun the infrastructure upgrading and rehabilitation.

Savcor’s project manager Joel Goda said: “100% work on the access decks for the entire coastal wharf has been completed … all materials are on site and testings done with work progressing on schedule.

“As at June 30, Savcor and Curtain Brother’s mobilisation onsite was completed. 

“Site office and hardstand area were completed, all temporary services have been installed. Safety barricade, safety signage have been put up and installed in all designated areas. 

“At this stage, 100% of required access decks for the entire coastal wharf has been installed,” Goda said.

When completed, the project will add 290m of berthing space to the existing port infrastructure.

“PNG Ports recognises the importance of cruise shipping to its business and the wider community through trickledown business opportunities and is keen to continue to provide berth and port facilities that encourage growth in this business,” chief executive Stanley Alphonse said.

“These services include safe and efficient berthing services, pilotage services, maintaining passenger friendly facilities and improving security for passengers and vessels.” 

The wharf infrastructure development project is fully supported by the Milne Bay provincial government.

Governor Titus Philemon said earlier the provincial government was spending K3 million, as counterpart funding to the jetty building project undertaken by the National Fisheries Authority. 

Alphonse said between 2,000 and 6,000 tourists are expected to disembarked at Alotau on Nov 4 and Carnival Australia, Australia’s leading cruise ship operator, has already sold the tickets.

“This is good for the economy and Papua New Guinea,”Alphonse added.