The National Pandemic Control Centre has announced domestic travel restrictions within PNG, starting tonight.
The decision was announced today after consultations with the airline industry and the Joint Agency Task Force Team in Port Moresby.
The National Pandemic Response Deputy Controller and Acting Health Secretary Dr Paison Dakulala said this in a statement late today.
“These restrictions are important for the country as we work with the Provincial Health Authorities to contain the widespread transmission of coronavirus.
“Effective contact tracing by the provinces have indicated that the transmission was from people who had recently been in Port Moresby. These include the confirmed cases of Western, West Sepik and Southern Highlands Provinces who have been contacts of cases who have been in Port Moresby.
“The travel measures will be effective tonight and will include limitations of persons travelling by aircraft from one province in PNG to another province.
“No domestic flight(s) may occur from one province in PNG to another province except for cargo flights with no passengers; and medevac flights, unless approved by the Controller or his delegate.
“All domestic flights must comply with hygiene and social distancing restrictions as issued by the Controller and all passengers must complete an Air Passenger Travel Form which is to be submitted to Provincial Health Authority on arrival.
“Roadblocks and restrictions of movement by foot and vessels will be authorized by the Controller.
However, Deputy Controller Dr Paison Dakulala assured intending travelers that all tickets purchased prior to 7 August will be honoured over the weekend.
“From Monday, passengers must have an approval to travel which will be facilitated by the airline operator.”
