Good start for OK Tedi mine

 TEN days into re-opening, OK Tedi Mining Ltd (OTML) yesterday announced production of 10,000 dry metric tonnes of copper concentrate at Ok Tedi mine in Western. 

Chief executive officer and managing director Peter Graham said the copper concentrate was being assembled on the silo vessel, Kumul Arrow, anchored in Port Moresby.

“OTML operations are off to a very encouraging start following the return of employees from a seven month suspension due to dry weather,” Graham said.  

“The work completed on major projects during the temporary shutdown has positioned us very well.

“Our workforce has returned enthusiastic to get restarted. 

“The immediate priority is ensuring safe operation as we adjust to our work routine. 

OTML also confirmed that following heavy rains during recent weeks, water level in Fly River was now sufficient to sustain ship traffic.

“With the installation and commissioning of the new replacement SAG Mill shell expected to be complete in about a week, Ok Tedi will then return to full scale production,” Graham said.

The mine announced its operations early this month. 

Graham had said that full production was expected towards the end of this month after commissioning of replacement of the part of a mill.