The Gelagela Rural Water Supply Reticulation Project has successfully completed its initial drilling phase in the Kabiu Local Level Government (LLG) of Rabaul District, East New Britain.
The works, which commenced on February 16 at the Gelagela Health Centre and Waterhouse Memorial Junior High School, have resulted in the installation of a solar-powered water bore system designed to supply a 9,000-litre storage tank.
During a formal ceremony, WKB Limited representative Mr. Wayne Benedict officially handed over the system to Kabiu LLG Manager Mr. Nerius Gogor.
The event was attended by ward members from Nordup and Rakunat, Rabaul District WaSH Coordinator Mr. Garry Mano, and Mr. Himson Novulu of Hornet Consultants PNG Limited.
Mr. Benedict acknowledged the support of all stakeholders, noting that the donor-funded project, implemented through Kombiu LLG and the Rabaul District Development Authority, is an indication of strong collaboration and commitment to rural development.
Despite the recent environmental hurdles, the project remained on schedule.
Mr. Novulu said despite the challenges posed by the effects of Cyclone Malia across the province, the project was delivered in a timely manner, with the drilling and installation works completed within approximately two months.
He commended WKB Limited for their efficiency and extended his gratitude to the Office of the ENB Governor, the Rabaul District Development Authority, Kombiu LLG leadership, and the Gelagela community for their cooperation.
With the infrastructure now in place, the focus shifts toward governance and long-term viability.
He said with the drilling phase now complete; the project will transition into its next stage- strengthening water management systems under the WaSH Management Plan.
This phase will involve establishing and training WaSH Committees to ensure the maintenance and sustainability of the new infrastructure.
Concurrently, the project is moving into the reticulation stage.
This will involve laying pipelines across eight sites within the resettlement area to bring water directly to households.
While a separate contractor will be engaged for the technical work, local youths will be mobilized to assist with trench digging and installation.
The initiative also features a monitoring and evaluation program and a micro-economic component to help residents leverage the water supply for better health and small-scale livelihood activities.
Meanwhile, Mr. Garry Mano emphasized the critical role of LLG WaSH Committees in overseeing the operation and sustainability of the water supply systems within their respective communities.
Mr. Nerius Gogor also welcomed the completion of the drilling works, noting that the project aligns with broader regional goals.
He said with the recent launch of the Rabaul District 5-Year WaSH Plan, this project will be implemented in line with its framework to ensure effective coordination, sustainability and improved water supply services to the resettlement communities.
