LIHIR ISLAND

• PGLNV
• Latitude: -3.11446
• Longitude: 152.647
• North Australia
• Port in Papua New Guinea

Location: Papua New Guinea

Lihir Island Marine Port Description and Specifications

General Overview: Lihir Island, part of Papua New Guinea (PNG), is known primarily for its large gold deposit and subsequent mining activities. The marine port on Lihir Island plays a crucial role in supporting these operations by facilitating the import and export of goods, including raw materials, fuel, equipment, and processed minerals.

Geographical Location:

• Latitude: Approximately 3°07′S
• Longitude: Approximately 152°38′E
• Region: New Ireland Province, Papua New Guinea

Port Facilities:

1. Berths and Jetties:

   • The port has multiple berths designed to handle various types of vessels, including bulk carriers, container ships, and cargo vessels.
   • The jetties are structurally reinforced to handle heavy loads, given the large volume of industrial equipment and materials related to mining operations.

2. Cargo Handling:

   • Facilities are equipped with advanced cargo handling equipment, including cranes and conveyors, to manage bulk materials efficiently.
   • Container handling services are available, with container stacking and storage facilities designed to accommodate significant throughput.

3. Storage Areas:

   • Lihir Island port includes extensive storage areas, including warehouses for general cargo and specialized storage for hazardous materials like chemicals and fuels.
   • Open storage areas are used for machinery and other oversized cargoes.

4. Fuel and Supply Services:

   • The port contains fuel storage facilities and bunkering services to support both marine and mining operational requirements. Fuel types available include diesel and other essential hydrocarbons.
   • There are also supply and provisioning services for vessels, ensuring they are well-stocked with necessary goods and equipment.

Navigation and Safety:

1. Pilotage:

   • Compulsory pilotage services are provided to ensure safe navigation of large vessels into and out of the port.
   • Experienced maritime pilots, familiar with local waters and conditions, guide vessels through the navigational hazards around the island.

2. Tug and Tow Assistance:

   • Tugboat services are available to assist in maneuvering vessels during docking and undocking operations, enhancing safety and efficiency.

3. Navigation Aids:

   • The approach to Lihir Island port is marked with navigational aids, including buoys, beacons, and lights, all maintained to international standards.

4. Security Measures:

   • Port security is managed to adhere to International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code requirements.
   • Security personnel and surveillance systems are in place to safeguard both the port facilities and the vessels.

Environmental Considerations:

• Stringent environmental regulations are in place to minimize the impact of port operations on the local ecosystem. This includes waste management strategies, spill response plans, and monitoring of air and water quality.

Connectivity:

• The port is well-connected to the island’s infrastructure, including roads leading to the mining areas and central facilities.
• Regular shipping lines, chartered vessels, and logistical services link Lihir Island port with other domestic and international ports.

Operational Hours:

• The port operates 24/7 to meet the demands of continuous mining and shipping activities, although specific office hours for administrative functions typically follow a more regular business schedule.

Conclusion

The Lihir Island marine port is a vital facility supporting the mining economy and local community of Lihir Island, Papua New Guinea. Its robust infrastructure and comprehensive services ensure the efficient handling of cargo, safe navigation of vessels, and adherence to environmental and security standards.