To address the fuel supply crises that was experienced by the country early this year, KPHL’s contractor, China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering, a subsidiary of China National Petroleum Company has begun construction of a Jet A1 fuel import and storage facility at a site adjacent to the Motukea wharf. Kumul Petroleum Managing Director, Wapu Sonk highlighted that this facility is part of the commitment KPHL made to the Government and people of PNG earlier this year. Apart from facilitating short term imports of fuel, KPHL would ensure that they would organise medium and longer terms solutions so that such fuel supply crises would not occur again in the future. “At Motukea, KPHL is constructing infrastructure for the import and storage of Jet A1 fuel, including four 3,000 cubic metre fuel tanks, associated ship offloading and truck loading equipment and the necessary safety and environmental control facilities.” Mr Sonk explained that KPHL had been busy dealing with other stakeholders in this important project, thus this included having the necessary geotechnical studies carried out, liaison with PNG Ports Corporation, CEPA, NMSA, other utilities, services providers and regulatory agencies who have to approve various aspects of the project. “KPHL has engaged China Petroleum and Pipeline Engineering Company Limited and China Petroleum and Pipeline International Limited to carry out the construction and commissioning of these facilities.” “This construction is Phase 1 of the project, and it is a significant activity and investment for Kumul Petroleum.” “Once it is complete and operating, we will consider a second phase which will involve constructing additional storage tanks, pipeline and support facilities for diesel and petrol imports and storage.” “KPHL is happy to assist the Government put in place critical infrastructure to ensure that Port Moresby and other parts of the country is never again faced with an energy crisis, which is so important for our economy and development as a country.” Sonk further thanked the Marape-Rosso Govt, especially Minister Duma, and the management of KCH and PNG Ports for their support in making sure the project becomes a reality.