Ports gets environment permit

PNG Ports Corporation Ltd (PNGPCL) finally obtained an environment permit yesterday to start work on the multi-million kina Motukea Port development project in Port Moresby.
Chief executive officer Stanley Alphonse, when receiving the permit from the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (Cepa), said the total cost of the  project was about K450 million.
“The project would take around 18 months to complete and the entire project design  considers environment as a key component.
“We are looking forward to having this entire facility completed in August or September next year if all goes as planned.
“Regarding impacts on the surrounding marine environment and so forth, there are adequate safeguards to ensure that those ecosystems and the environment are protected,” Alphonse said.
Cepa managing director Gunther Joku said the project was of major significance to the country.
“Their application for permit went through an extensive screening and review process and the authority is satisfied that they meet the environment standards to commence the project,” he said.
“We commend PNG Ports for their commitment to protecting the environment as well as doing their business and providing revenues for the Government to deliver services to the people, just like other state owned enterprises,” Joku said.
He said once the permit is issued, it’s a beginning of an ongoing commitment and effort that Cepa will have to monitor and manage regularly to ensure that the project through construction, development and operation must comply with and meet the standards as agreed.