No total water shutdown for Port Moresby, says Water PNG

Water PNG has dismissed rumors of an impending total shutdown of the nation’s capital water supply, urging the public to disregard widespread misinformation circulating online.

While acknowledging that aging pipeline infrastructure has caused widespread public anxiety, Water PNG Chief Executive Officer James Young assured consumers that water supply to the city will be maintained through a managed rationing system rather than a complete blackout.

Young confirmed to NBC News that technical teams are already working to replace dilapidated valves and dismantle illegal connections, with the current exercise slated for completion before the end of July.

"The situation at this stage is serious, resulting in a significant reduction in the water supply, but it will require strategic rationing and not a total shutdown," he said.

He said emergency repair work is underway on the most critically damaged sections of the main trunk line. Technical measures have been implemented to ensure uninterrupted raw water flow into the Mount Eriama Water Treatment Plant via the Rouna 4 pipeline, which will then feed into the city’s primary distribution network.

Young said state-owned utility is collaborating closely with the National Government and international development partners to maintain service. The immediate priority is to execute the critical repairs safely with minimal disruption to residential areas, businesses, and essential government services.

Concurrently, Water PNG is finalizing long-term financing arrangements to permanently replace the aging pipeline network.

The management has pledged to provide ample public notice ahead of any localized, temporary supply interruptions required for the ongoing maintenance.