Hela expands water fleet to counter dry spell

The initial water fleets purchased last month in response to the ongoing dry spell *(Image: NBC News / Peter Wari)*

The Hela provincial government has expanded its emergency drought response by purchasing four additional 10,000-liter water trucks, scheduled for delivery next month.

This addition doubles the province's fleet to eight water tankers as the province copes with the intensifying El Niño drought.

Hela governor Philip Undialu said the initial four trucks purchased have been operating around Tari Town, supplying water to government institutions, public servants, local churches, and nearby communities.

"With four more trucks arriving, the distribution strategy will expand across the province, allocating one water truck directly to each of the four districts to extend relief beyond the capital," he said.

Undialu also warned customary landowners and local guardians of natural water sources to stop imposing fees or restricting public access during the severe dry spell.

"Water is a universal human right," he said.

Undialu said anyone charging fees or blocking access during a drought could face legal consequences.

He said natural water supplies located on private land must remain accessible to everyone in the community during this dry season.

Governor Undialu confirmed that the Hela provincial disaster management committee has been established under National Disaster Centre’s directive.

He assured the public that the committee is working around the clock to coordinate relief efforts and safeguard communities throughout the ongoing disaster.