Power restoration underway at Magarima Station

Electricity is set to be restored at Magarima Station in the Magarima District of Hela Province, with major work now underway to install two new 500 kilowatt generators.

The Magarima District Development Authority [DDA] says the project will power the district station and surrounding communities, providing a much-needed boost to health, education, and business services.

Magarima DDA chief executive officer Simon Olaija confirmed to NBC News that contractor Olympus Projects Ltd is currently installing the two generators, which together will deliver 1MW of power.

"Olympus Projects Ltd is in the process of installing the generators. They have already ordered step-up transformers and we are now awaiting their arrival," he said.

"Once the transformers arrive, they will connect to the main electricity line for further inspection and approval certification by PNG Power Ltd."

Olaija said a fuel depot will also be constructed at the generator shed. The two generators will operate on a rotational basis - one during the day and the other at night - to ensure continuous power supply to the station.

The CEO explained that the DDA had previously invested significant funds in a rural electrification rollout before Magarima separated from Komo-Hulia district. Power poles were erected from Hulia LLG all the way to Magarima.

However, much of that work was destroyed.

"Most of the poles were erected near the road corridor and when work on the Mendi-Tari road sealing commenced, the poles had to be removed," Olaija said.

"The contractor engaged for the electrification project had put them within 40 meters of the road. Others were also damaged by fallen trees."

He said the loss of those poles has delayed power access for rural communities, but the new generator project will provide immediate relief to the station while long-term grid plans are reviewed.

He said restoring electricity is critical for development in the district.

"Electricity is one important service that will give rise to SME and agricultural activities. Health facilities and schools also depend on daily electricity to operate effectively," he said.

Workers from Olympus Projects Ltd on site have confirmed that installation work is progressing well.

Once the transformers arrive and PNG Power completes its inspection, Magarima Station and nearby areas will be reconnected to power for the first time in years.