AIR NIUGINI CANCELLED FIGHTS TO HOSKINS AIRPORT AFTER FLOOD WASHED AWAY BRIDGE

The Buluma Bridge between Hoskins Airport and Kimbe town in WNB Province was washed away by flood after heavy rain on Saturday which denied Air Niugini flight passengers access to the airport resulting in Air Niugini cancelling its flights to Hoskins Airport.
Acting Provincial Disaster Director Leo Porikura said this had also affected the New Britain Palm Oil Limited (NBPO) with its business operations in the Province.
Mr Porikura said the Provincial Disaster Office had liaised with the Provincial Technical Division with the Works Department and the New Britain Palm Oil Limited (NBPO) and have constructed a temporary bypass to allow for transport flow.
Mr Porikura also said the oil palm subdivision of Buvusi located 9kilometres from Kimbe town was also flooded on Saturday after a small drainage system in the area burst out flooding the Kimbe–Biala Highway.
He said Disaster officers are still assessing property damages for a final report for relief assistance and the reconstruction of Buluma Bridge.
“Meanwhile heavy rain still continues in the province”, he said.