Southern Highlanders oppose mega mall construction at Momei Oval
People in the Southern Highlands are strongly against the provincial government's plan to construct a large shopping mall at Momei Oval in Mendi.
Leaders said the oval holds deep cultural and historical importance. For many years, it has been used for special ceremonies, big public events, and even as the official counting center during national elections.
They say the oval is also important as it was named after the first MP for the Mendi Munihu District, Momei Pangial.
Concerns about this plan have already led to public action. A first meeting of citizens happened last week in Mendi, and another meeting is planned for this week to continue discussions and gather public opinion.
A local leader and owner of Heli Solutions Ltd, Captain James Pima, is one of the strongest critics of the proposed development. He said the project ignores the cultural history and community value of Momei Oval. He believes that if such development is to happen, the Mendi Airport should be moved first.
"This crazy idea should not be supported by the good people of Mendi Town, nearby communities, leaders, and businesses. The current airport, which isn't making money, should be moved to the Olama site in Lower Mendi LLG," he said.
“This site has already been checked and planned by Cardno PNG Ltd. Their report gives strong reasons why the Mendi airport needs to be moved."
He said there is an existing decision from the Provincial Executive Council [PEC] about this, and the Southern Highlands Provincial Government [SHPG] must follow up to make it a top priority.
"Business activities should wait until the Mendi Airport is moved. The large area where the short Mendi Airport is located needs to be cleared, divided, and rented out to private companies to build businesses. This will create jobs and wealth for Mendi town and the rest of the Southern Highlands Province and Papua New Guinea,” Pima said.
Captain Pima further explained that the Mendi Airport sits at 1731 meters [5680ft] above sea level and is considered a high altitude airport with associated factors limiting aircraft performance.
"With Mendimanda already blocking the way for planes coming in and leaving from the south (Runway 35), building a commercial building right in the path of planes coming from the north (Runway 17) will make it even more dangerous for aircraft and passengers. It will also reduce how much cargo planes can carry in and out of the airport," he said.
Pima said commercial airline and small operators will not be risking their aircraft’s into Mendi with the potential for accidents very high and increasing and also with the threats of lawsuits by victims hanging over their heads.
He stated that it also increases the operators’ insurance premiums which Mendi Airport is not a commercially attractive destination now for a good return on their aircraft investments.
Provincial Administrator David Kelma during the gathering last week endorsed the proposal, stating that it as a timely and necessary move amid current economic challenges.
He said Momei Oval is government-owned land intended to serve the interests of all citizens, and its conversion into a commercial hub could generate revenue and stimulate economic activity.
The proposed development is expected to include supermarkets, food outlets, and other amenities, creating opportunities for small and medium enterprises and providing jobs for local youth.