Dry NCD celebrates

RAIN has been threatening all week to disrupt the 35th Independence Day anniversary but, yesterday, it was the dry water taps that disrupted final preparations in the nation’s capital.
Many government offices and institutions closed early because there was no water and no official
explanation as Eda Ranu played host to a Pacific water conference at Holiday Inn while the surrounding
areas remained high and dry.
Many city residents showed little concern as three days of celebrations and partying got underway to mark Sept 16.
NCD Governor Powes Parkop opened the celebrations at the Sir John Guise stadium yesterday with a cultural show, followed by the battle of the bands.
It continues today with more dancing and singing at the stadium, Jack Pidik Park and the University of PNG Waigani and Taurama campuses.
The Hiri Moale Festival is already in full swing at Ela Beach.
At the Moresby Arts Theatre, the second PNG Cut Flower Show is in full bloom.
The Sept 14-17 event allows gardeners nationwide to display arrays of beautiful flowers. Police warned they would be out in full force to ensure trouble-free celebrations in the city and along Central roads, warning motorists not to drink and drive.
The dog and traffic units will provide extra support for the men and women in blue who will also be on foot beats.
In Chimbu, police will patrol the main Highlands Highway to ensure motorists and traffic are not hindered by unruly mobs of revellers.
In Mt Hagen, thousands of young people were gearing to celebrate at the Pope John Paul II oval. Youths from all districts in the province will be taking part in the celebration.
In Northern, the tapa festival will be the highlight of the celebrations in Popondetta, starting with the governor’s charity walk to raise funds for the operating theatre at the Popondetta Hospital.