K14.4mil station launched

THE US$4.2 million (K14.40mil) Puma Energy fuel service station which was opened in Port Moresby last Friday will benefit hundreds of people living in the Gerehu suburb.
National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop said the new service station would benefit the community, businesses and University of PNG (UPNG) staff and students.
The community retail village is located opposite the Port Moresby Nature Park and built in partnership with Puma Energy PNG Ltd and the UPNG.
Puma Energy PNG Ltd country manager and director Hulala Tokome said the initial lease agreement was signed in 2011 during InterOil’s operation and was re-signed in 2014 between Puma Energy and UPNG.
He said it was about bringing a global standard to the country for the people to enjoy.
“It represents our commitment in partnership with the University of PNG in commercialising their unused assets for UPNG as a whole, a win-win public-private partnership.”
Tokome said the 1.292 hectare site could fill up to 20 vehicles at a time from five pump islands.
It also has a drive-through burger outlet, a PNG pie restaurant concept, an electronic/technology shop and a liquor outlet.
It will be operated by retail operator Victory 8, one of 400 small to medium enterpises partnering the company’s retail and Puma Gas businesses.
UPNG Vice-Chancellor Prof Frank Griffin said it could be used as a model for a public-private partnership.