MINISTER for National Defence and Emergency Services, Hon. Dr. Billy Joseph MP has commended the efforts of PNGDF and Police personnel engaged in Operation Golden Valley in Porgera, Enga Province.
“I am proud of the dedication and sacrifice by our PNGDF and RPNGC personnel deployed here and all other operations to achieve government intent,” said Minister Joseph, who was in the province since Friday to visit the troops.
He said the support of the disciplined forces to the leadership on the ground was key to ensuring that people carry on with their daily lives in a safe and secure environment, pursuing their individual goals and enjoying its benefits.
“Whilst tribal fights are a serious constraint, the resilient leadership provided by Governor Grand Chief Sir Peter Ipatas, MP, and the Engan Leadership is highly commendable,” Minister Joseph said.
During the course of this trip, Minister Joseph also paid a courtesy visit to Enga Governor Grand Chief Sir Peter Ipatas on Sunday and is visiting the Mulitaka landslide disaster site today. The visit to Mulitaka is the minister’s fourth since the unfortunate events of May 24th, 2024.
Minister Joseph returned to the disaster site again to inspect the rehabilitation work being done and to get a personal appreciation of the recovery efforts by PNGDF and the disaster management teams.
One of the major works carried out as part of the rehabilitation exercise is the construction of a bypass road and the securing of the main supply route to Porgera Gold Mine. This road is managed by the Department of Works and Highways and is being currently constructed by local contractors with support from PNGDF engineers. Total distance of road under construction is approximately 5.5 kilometres, of which 2.5 kilometres have been cleared and grubbing done.
Full access to this new bypass road is expected by end of August after completion of the construction works. The opening of this road is critical in giving access to the displaced people for resettlement as talks of opening up the existing road reached a stalemate due to claims of compensation payments by local landowners.
