Ok Tedi Mining Limited (OTML) has completed the construction of a critical underground pump station project.
The pump station will advance the overall water management strategy at the mine, while enhancing safety and also saving significant costs.
The pump station is designed to manage increased volumes of rainwater discharged into the mine pit through mine shafts and depressurisation holes. The system now channels this water through 800mm polyethylene pipes, stretching 3.2 kilometres from the underground tunnel to the surface entrance.
The water is then safely discharged into the river system.
This engineering solution creates a safe and dry working environment for underground crews in an area that receives 10,000mm of rainfall annually, leading to continuous productivity and improved conditions.
The project was developed over 10 months from August 2024. Construction was completed without any safety or environmental incidents. It came in below budget, with a saving of $US1.2 million on its original projections.
OTML manager of mine support service and underground James Waisime said the project involved three separate contractors and over 40 underground mining crew members. The operation featured mining, geotechnical and structural engineering specialists, as well as surveyors, boilermakers, pump fitters, and electricians.
“This was a true team effort,” he said. “The safe and timely completion of this project demonstrates the strength of collaboration across departments and our contractors.
“I’m proud of the commitment and professionalism shown by everyone involved.”
OTML managing director and chief executive officer Kedi Ilimbit congratulated the team for successfully completing the project.
“As a world class mine, it is imperative that we adopt global best practices,” he said. “The underground pump station is among a number of projects undertaken by Ok Tedi to improve operational efficiency within our mine operation to ensure we continue to deliver results for the benefit of our shareholders – the people of Western Province and Papua New Guinea,”
