Water PNG Limited has confirmed it is still receiving and engaging with developers seeking water and sewerage connections but has temporarily suspended approvals for new developments in Port Moresby due to limited network capacity.
Chief Executive Officer James Young told PNG SUN that the company continues to receive proposals from developers and planning agencies despite concerns that it had stopped accepting applications.
“We have not stopped receiving proposals, and we continue engaging with developers and planning agencies. However, we must be transparent about capacity constraints,” Mr. Young said.
He said the Water PNG Board had implemented a temporary suspension on new development approvals within Port Moresby while critical infrastructure upgrades and capacity improvements are undertaken.
“The Board has made this decision as approving new developments would further reduce service standards to existing customers. Quite simply, we are unable to service any new developments until we address the existing system leakage,” he said.
Mr. Young stressed that the suspension does not mean Water PNG has stopped discussions with developers.
“We will keep talking to developers, but approvals must align with real network capacity and a sustainable funding pathway to protect existing customers and public health,” he said.
The temporary measure is aimed at ensuring the city’s existing water and sewerage systems can continue to meet current demand while long-term infrastructure improvements are carried out.