PNG: Water disruptions ongoing in parts of Central Province and Port Moresby as of Feb. 6 due to repair works

Water disruptions are ongoing in parts of the National Capital District, including Port Moresby and Central Province, as of Feb. 6. Areas affected include residential and commercial buildings in Burns Peak, Ensisi Valley, Gehuru Stages 1 to 7, Hohola 1-4, June Valley, Murray Barracks (Hohola side), National Research Institute, North Waigani, Rainbow Estate, University of Papua New Guinea, and villages of Baruni, Motukea, Porebada, Roku, and Tokarara. The disruptions are caused by ongoing repair works to a water trunk along Pipit Street that was vandalized Feb. 3-4. Officials did not clarify when repair works will end.

Business disruptions are likely, especially for companies that rely on large quantities of municipal water. Essential services, including hospitals and health facilities, could experience disruptions due to water cuts. Spontaneous protests are possible in areas affected by prolonged water outages. In the event of protests, increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely.