Ok Tedi Mining Ltd has airlifted 41 tonnes of emergency relief supplies to Tabubil to support communities affected by the prolonged drought in Papua New Guinea’s North Fly District of Western Province.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit confirmed the deliveries, which form part of the company’s K15 million allocation for Western Province from its K50 million El Niño Relief Fund.
Ok Tedi transported the supplies using its chartered Lynden Hercules cargo aircraft, delivering 14 tonnes on October 24 and another 14 tonnes on October 25. A further 13 tonnes were delivered on November 3, bringing the total airlifted volume to 41 tonnes.
The deliveries form part of an initial 50-tonne allocation designated for air transportation, with the remaining supplies to be delivered as relief operations continue.
Ilimbit said the company recognised the difficulties facing communities across Western Province, particularly as the drought had also affected its own operations and surrounding areas.
“As a Western Province-based company that has also been affected by the El Niño conditions, we recognise the hardships being faced by many communities and are committed to supporting relief efforts wherever we can.
“By making our chartered Hercules aircraft available, we are helping to ensure essential supplies reach those who need them most,” he said.
The aircraft is normally used to transport operational supplies between Port Moresby and Tabubil. Ok Tedi has extended its use to support the delivery of essential goods to drought-affected communities.
The company said it would continue to maintain safe and efficient operations while supporting the relief effort.
Ok Tedi will also work with government agencies and other stakeholders to support ongoing assistance programmes across Western Province.
