Isoaimo: Mining polluting rivers

 KAIRUKU-Hiri MP Peter Isoaimo claims that rivers in his electorate are being polluted by the Tolukuma gold mine in the Central hinterland of Goilala.

“It looks like Kairuku-Hiri has become a guinea pig for Papua New Guinea in that all road experiments are carried out in Kairuku-Hiri. 

“And all mining experiments are carried out in Kairuku-Hiri,” he told Parliament on Tuesday.

“As a direct result of the Tolukuma mine pollution, the people of Mekeo and Roro in the Kairuku district are continuously experiencing flood disasters.

“There are reports by reputable scientists that the Angabanga River is being polluted. 

“Sediment was building up in the Angabanga River.” 

In response, Mining Minister Byron Chan said he sympathised with the people of Kairuku-Hiri.

“Yes, there may be some issues resulting from the mining,” he said.

“I will have to ask the Minister for Environment to assist me on allegations that the rivers have been contaminated.

“And that mining is affecting the Angabanga River, and the other waterways in the electorate.

“I will ask my department members, from Mineral Resources Authority, as well as Minister for Environment, to assist me assess the current situation and hopefully get a report back to you soon.”