The Mineral Resources Authority has completed the first phase of the hydrogeological surveys for a safe and reliable access to water, sanitation and hygiene facilities in the South Fly District of Western Province.
This is part of the South Fly Resilience Plan, supported by the Papua New Guinea-Australia Partnership.
The surveys determine the best locations for boreholes to access groundwater by assessing water quality, quantity and speed of storage, as well as proximity to the communities.
Boreholes are groundwater sources and are more reliable during dry seasons. MRA Executive Manager, Nathan Mosusu says he was pleased to work with Australia to improve the lives of rural communities.
He says they are pleased to leverage partner support to work towards improving water access and livelihoods.
While rain-water catchment is a common method of water access, villages in the South Fly District remain highly vulnerable to shocks, including water shortages.
Disease outbreaks are common during droughts as communities are forced to use unsafe water sources.
Data collected from the surveys will provide an evidence base to guide cost effective, sustainable and climate resilient options for improving long term water security in South Fly.
The initial phase of the survey had success in identifying potential water sources.
Aired Sunday, 3rd April 2022.