Ok Tedi Mining Ltd. is maintaining mining and processing operations despite dry weather conditions and lower-than-normal water levels on the Fly River, the company said.
Ok Tedi said it is closely monitoring river conditions and has activated contingency measures to maintain the supply of fuel, critical consumables, equipment and other operational requirements to its mine site.
Parts of the Fly River are currently not being used for normal freight movements because of the low water levels, prompting the company to source alternative logistics arrangements.
"As part of our business continuity planning, Ok Tedi has been actively managing the impacts of the dry conditions through a range of mitigation measures, including pursuing alternate supply routes and careful management of key resources," Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit said.
"At present, mining and processing operations continue, and the company remains focused on delivering its operational objectives safely and responsibly. While the current conditions present additional logistical challenges, Ok Tedi has contingency plans in place and continues to adapt its operations as required," he said.
Ok Tedi said it was experiencing increased costs associated with managing the dry weather, particularly in logistics and supply chain management.
The company said it was taking measures to manage the impacts and maintain operational resilience.
Ilimbit said the Kiunga-Aiambak road was now accessible and a trial tanker run was planned for this week.
Work is also continuing to improve access along the Alice Pit to Butmabin-Yetekun border crossing route, he said.
Ok Tedi said it would continue monitoring weather patterns, river conditions and supply chain risks.
"The safety of our employees, contractors and communities remains our highest priority, while ensuring the ongoing reliability of our operations," the company said.
"While the current dry weather conditions require us to be agile and proactive, it is business as usual at Ok Tedi. We anticipated the potential impacts and have activated contingency measures to support our operations. Our teams continue to do an excellent job managing the situation, and we remain focused on safely delivering our operational commitments," Ilimbit said.
Ok Tedi Mining Ltd. operates an open-pit copper, gold and silver mine in the Star Mountains of Western province. The company is majority state-owned and has operated in the region for more than 40 years.
The company ships copper concentrate to smelters and ore refineries in Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, South Korea, India and Germany.
Ok Tedi is also expanding into Milne Bay province through the acquisition of Gallipoli Exploration Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Australian mining company Kingston Resources Ltd., for the Misima mine.
