THE Autonomous Bougainville Government has launched four new passenger vessels to improve transport, emergency access and trade links for remote atoll communities.
The PGK2.5 million project, funded through Papua New Guinea’s Climate Change and Development Authority, was officially handed over on Friday by Bougainville Fisheries Minister and Atolls Member Amanda Masono.
The vessels will serve Fead in Nuguria, Carterets in Tuloun, Mortlock in Takuu and Tasman in Amotu, where residents often face long and hazardous sea journeys to reach health care, education, government services and markets.
Masono said the boats were a direct response to the daily risks faced by island communities.
“For too long, our atoll communities have been on the frontline of the global climate crisis, risking their lives on unpredictable seas,” she said.
“These vessels turn climate resilience planning into real services that improve safety, mobility and access to opportunities.”
Each 32-foot vessel is fitted with twin 200-horsepower inboard engines, navigation equipment and open-sea safety systems. Officials said the boats are designed to operate in Bougainville’s challenging maritime conditions.
The vessels are expected to support medical evacuations, student transport and the movement of fisheries and agricultural products between the atolls and mainland Bougainville.
To get the service running immediately, the Department of Transport and Utilities will act as interim operating authority from June 14 for three months while legislation governing small-craft operations is finalised.
A crew of 16 trained personnel will operate the vessels on a rotational roster. Revenue from passenger fares and commercial charter work will be managed through dedicated accounts overseen by the Department of Finance, with funds earmarked for maintenance and long-term sustainability.
Bougainville’s atolls are among the Pacific’s most climate-vulnerable communities, exposed to sea-level rise, coastal erosion and changing weather patterns. The Carteret Islands have drawn international attention over displacement linked to environmental change.
