Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML), through the National Government’s Tax Credit Scheme (TCS), has awarded a road construction contract worth K36.1 million from Atemkit to Kavorabip in North Fly District, Western Province.
The 28.74 km road will serve as a critical link for the two villages of Atemkit and Kavorabip, whose people include the principle landowners of the Ok Tedi Mine operation.
Currently the villages of Atemkit and Kavorabip are only accessible by helicopter.
“The people of Atemkit and Kavorabip are principle landowners just like the people of Finalbin and Bultem. Unfortunately it took Ok Tedi and the Government too long to recognise them through such infrastructure projects,” said OTML Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer Kedi Ilimbit.
“Today we are witnessing the signing of a road construction project that will link these very people to the rest of Western Province,” added Mr Ilimbit.
Fly Engineering & Asset Management Limited (FEAML) a local company has been awarded the project, which is expected to be completed within 30 months.
FEAML Managing Director Joel Dangkim, expressed his sincere appreciation to OTML for being the successful bidder and committed to completing the project to expectations.
North Fly MP James Donald, thanked OTML and the National Government for their collaboration in having the project approved for delivery.
“Though this has taken a long time, we are thankful and grateful for this project to finally begin,” said Mr Donald.
Also present at the signing was Western Governor Taboi Awi Yoto, who thanked the landowners and people of Western province for supporting the mine over the years despite challenges faced.