Statement from Abbot Point operations
Published by Stephanie Roker,
Editor
World Coal,
Abbot Point has commented on the recent flooding and intense rainfall:
“The weather in North Queensland over the past fortnight has been extreme and unprecedented.
“Unfortunately, Abbot Point Terminal has also suffered from flooding and intense rainfall.
“We’ve had more than 900 mm of rain at the Port since December alone, and that amount of water takes a toll.
“Like many other businesses, operations at the Abbot Point Terminal have also been impacted. We had to suspend operations at the Port earlier this week because the extreme weather meant it just wasn’t safe for our employees to be onsite, and the safety and well-being of our employees will always be our top priority.
“During our inspection yesterday we confirmed there has been no release of flood water into the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, but flood water has been released into the Caley Valley Wetlands via our authorised release point.
“We promptly reported these preliminary inspection findings to the Department of Environment and Science.
“We are confident that no environmental harm has or will occur.
“We’re fully co-operating with the Queensland Department of Environment and Science who have had officials out onsite on 8 February undertaking their own inspections and taking monitoring samples.
“We’re also doing our own inspections and taking monitoring samples in line with our Environmental Authority, which will be sent to an accredited third party for analysis. We expect our monitoring results to be returned within the following week.
“Since 2017, we’ve been undertaking a three year major infrastructure upgrade programme to improve safety and environmental management. We’ve already delivered AUS$15 million in upgrades in what will be a AUS$50 million programme in total.
“Due to the recent extreme weather conditions and heavy rainfall at Abbot Point, all operational activities are still suspended.
“Conditions at the terminal are improving and the preparation of a return to operation plan is underway.”
Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/coal/08022019/statement-from-abbot-point-operations/
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