Amaiu commits K4m in water projects for electorate

Caption:   Amaiu (first left) splashing water to the crowd after opening the opening taps along with other MPs.

By MATTHEW VARI

Sunday, May 11, 2014 (Sunday Chronicle, PNG)

THE Member for Moresby North East made the announcements and part-payments at the launching of the ATS Community water project last week, to complete the launched project’s final stage of construction and the beginning of water projects in Erima, 9 Mile, Wildlife communities in his electorate.

Completion of the K3.5 million ATS Water Project received an additional boost of K200,000 to kick-start the second phase, after the initial phase’s completion courtesy of a K1.5 million combined funding from the MP (K400,000), Governor of NCD Powes Parkop (K600,000) and the Member for Alotau and Minister for National Planning Charles Abel (K500,000).

For the Erima water project Amaiu committed K1.5 million, giving a first quarter payment to Eda Ranu to begin construction- 8 Mile received the largest portion of funding with K2 million committed and a first payment of K250,000, followed by the Wildlife Community with a K500,000 commitment and a first up payment K100,000.

All in total the member has committed more than K4 million in funding for what he said was rightfully theirs to spend and a right of the people to have access to such a vital resource.

“When we launched the ATS water project last year, many thought that it was not going happen but we are here now to open this first phase,” Amaiu said.

“Despite ATS water project taking a huge slice of DSIP funds- I believe they have suffered for too long and they deserve this project to improve their way of life.”

He, however, reminded the community to take ownership of the project by looking after the infrastructure and paying their bills to the service provider.

“To keep water flowing into your community you must take ownership and pay for your bill, as it is not free to bring in this service.”

“It costs Eda Ranu money to maintain clean drinking water for the city and you must do your part by paying for it as we have done ours by bringing in this service.”

Sentiments that were shared by the Chairlady of the Eda Ranu Board Mary Karo, who reminded the community that their project was by far the biggest the supplier had undertaken so far outside of the existing system.

“I ask you to please look after the service- water is not free so in return make sure that taps are not leaking and ensure you pay for the water,” Karo said.

“We do not want you to be cut off from the service when your bills aren’t being paid.”

She thanked the MPs who contributed towards the project, the engineers from Eda Ranu and the contractors for a job well done.