The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL), and Rio Tinto have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to address concerns around future risks of ageing infrastructure in the former Panguna mine area.
This collaboration comes in response to information obtained during field work forthe independent Legacy Impact Assessment, which identified several ageing structures requiring prompt attention. The MoU aims to mitigate potential risks associated with deteriorating infrastructure and promote safety in the region.
Works will be carried out on old BCL assets, including the Jaba Pump Station and the Momau River Bridge, as well as the former mine area workshop, storage facilities and concrete wall in the Panguna town area. The works are expected to commence in November 2024 and will take several months to complete.
ABG Chief Secretary Kearnneth Nanei said concerns about run down infrastructure had been escalated to the government following field work conducted as part of the Panguna Mine Legacy Impact Assessment (PMLIA).
“We are very pleased to be working with BCL with support from Rio Tinto in responding to the issues raised, in the best interest of our people. As we await the final results of the legacy impact assessment, these works represent a positive sign of cooperation by BCL and Rio Tinto,” he said.
BCL Chairman Sir Mel Togolo said as the mine’s former operator and holder of the EL01 exploration licence for the area, BCL maintains a presence and is recognised as a development partner on the ground in Bougainville.
“Our local team will be working closely together with the ABG in overseeing the project works to ensure these ageing buildings and structures don’t cause issues for the community,” he said.
Rio Tinto Country Director for PNG Andrew Cooper said: "We are pleased tosupport the Autonomous Bougainville Government and Bougainville Copper Limited in addressing these issuesidentified as a priority during the legacy impact assessment field work. We commend the ABG and Chief Secretary Nanei for their proactive leadership in driving tangible action.”
The results of Phase 1 of the PMLIA are due for public release in the fourth quarter of 2024. These will provide all parties with a clearer understanding of the potential environmental impacts and directly connected social and human rights impacts, associated with the Panguna mine since the cessation of mining in 1989.
