K1.3mil for rural electricity

THE Gazelle development authority (DDA) in East New Britain, has approved K1.3 million for three rural electrification projects.
In its recent meeting, the DDA approved the rural electrification rollout from Putanagororoi to Vunapaka health centre, Utmei to Mandres station and Tinganagalip junction to Palnakaur.
Gazelle MP Jelta Wong said this was a priority project which would improve the living standard of people in these areas that are yet to access power supply.
Wong, who is also the Minister for Health and HIV/AIDS, said in the three locations, there were schools, health facilities and community centres that needed electricity.
“It will also enhance the living standard of people in these communities that have been without power supply for a long time,” he said.
Wong said rural electrification was the key to growing the local economy.
“It will complement the current rollout of the Gazelle women in business programme that will see the small-medium sector thrive and therefore, electricity is needed in homes,” he said.
Initially, Wong had met with PNG Power Ltd chairman Peter Nupiri, acting chief executive officer Douglas Mageo and general manager operations Bernard Ururu to discuss this priority projects for the district.
The DDA approved power supply extension from Ratunur junction to Rabata, Tamavatur junction to Tapipi junction, Tagitagi to Rumrumi and Rapolo/Nalaguna Three to Karavia 1.