Situation frustrates CPL founder

CITY Pharmacy Limited (CPL) founder Sir Mahesh Patel says it makes his “blood boil” to see many things not working well in the country.
Garden produce including vegetables from farmers in the Highlands region destined for the CPL-owned supermarkets in Port Moresby did not arrive because of cancelled flights.
On top of that, Sir Mahesh, who had been doing business in the country for 40 years, said businesses which suffered substantial losses during the Jan 10 civil unrest were still waiting for the Government-promised relief package assistance.
“It makes my blood boil. It’s just one thing or another,” he said.
“Think of the 50 or so farmers in the Highlands, impacting 500 to 1,000 people. Where does one expect them to sell all the produce that has a short life?
“Airfreighted are leafy vegetables and produce with short shelf lives. Kaukau, potatoes, onions are by sea.
“We airfreight three tonnes a week, two tonnes a month and bring in another 40 tonnes by sea every month.”
According to Sir Mahesh, farmer agents in Mt Hagen were not able to send any cargo and freight on Monday and Tuesday due to flight cancellations.
Air Niugini acting chief executive officer Gary Seddon said Air Niugini cargo freight was operating as usual but any change would be because of certain factors.
“That’s because we can only operate small jets out of Kagamuga Airport (Mt Hagen). Plus the weather has been against us,” he said.
“We purchased bulk jet fuel, so we have more than enough fuel presently.
“Air Niugini will continue to operate our services safely and competently. We are mindful of our commitment to PNG to provide air transport services for both passengers and freight.
“External factors which include runway quality and capacity, landing lights, Papi landing systems, and firefighting services are hindering the operations of all operators, including Air Niugini.”