The Rabaul District Administration has partnered with Water PNG Limited to establish two new public water supply outlets in strategic locations across the district, providing vital relief during the ongoing prolonged dry season.
The first outlet is located at the Kaivuna front in Ward 4 of the Rabaul Urban Local Level Government (LLG) along the Matupit-SSM Road, while the second has been established at Nonga village, positioned directly in front of the Balanataman LLG Office complex.
Both facilities were officially launched today by representatives from the Rabaul District Administration and Water PNG in a ceremony witnessed by local public servants and community members.
Under a three-year partnership agreement, Water PNG utilized its existing infrastructure to install the outlets, while the Rabaul District Administration has committed to covering all monthly utility bills.
This arrangement guarantees that local residents receive clean, safe drinking water completely free of charge.
Both stations will operate daily for public water refilling between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
Speaking at the launch, Rabaul District Administrator Mr. Freddy Lemeki emphasized the critical need for reliable water access during extended dry spells and expressed his appreciation to Water PNG for their swift collaboration.
“Water is essential, and we thanked the Water PNG management for their understanding and willingness to partner with us using their existing water supply systems to set up taps for public use,” said Mr. Lemeki.
The Kaivuna outlet in Ward 4 will serve residents of Rabaul Town, the Matupit and SSM corridors, and adjacent communities.
Meanwhile, the Nonga village outlet at the Balanataman LLG chambers will supply water to Nonga, Tavui, and surrounding areas within the Balanataman and Kabiu LLG wards.
With these two new sites operational, Rabaul District now manages three free public water supply points, adding to the existing main source at the district headquarters in Kurakakaul.
Mr. Lemeki further revealed that efforts are currently underway to refurbish two water bores owned by Coconut Products Limited (CPL), which will eventually reticulate water directly to the Malaguna No. 2 Ward Hall.
To ensure sustainability, Mr. Lemeki urged community members to respect and take ownership of the new infrastructure.
He added that site attendants will maintain detailed tracking sheets at each location for monitoring and evaluation purposes.
Representing Water PNG at the event, Team Leader for Water Production Mr. Mohu Moana commended the district administration for initiating the partnership and reaffirmed Water PNG’s commitment to ongoing cooperation for reliable service delivery.