SYDNEY, Dec. 13 (Xinhua) -- The first large-scale hotel developments in Papua New Guinea (PNG) to apply modular construction are progressing steadily, the constructor said recently, adding that some projects have moved from factory manufacturing to on-site assembly.
Feng Wanhao, general manager of CSCEC Science and Industry (South Pacific) and CSCEC STEEL (PNG), told Xinhua that the modular hotel projects in PNG include the Kerema Heritage Hotel project in PNG's Gulf Province, as well as the Kikori Heritage Hotel and Kutubu Heritage Hotel projects in Southern Highlands Province.
CSCEC Science and Industry, a subsidiary of China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC), has undertaken modular building projects in Australia, New Zealand and other markets.
Under the "factory manufacturing plus on-site assembly" model, the Chinese constructor produces the buildings in standardized modular units integrating structural, mechanical and electrical, and interior finishing functions. After about 95 percent of structural work, installation of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, interior finishing and furniture integration is completed in factories, the company will deliver the modules to the project site for installation.
Feng said modular construction can reduce overall project timelines by 30 to 50 percent and significantly lower exposure to challenges such as the rainy season and complex geological conditions. The company uses standardized production, mechanization and multiple rounds of quality inspections to ensure that modules are fully tested before delivery, enabling immediate use upon installation.
He added that modular construction is greener, more environmentally friendly, customizable, scalable and relocatable, making it particularly suitable for PNG's remote regions.
The phased delivery and operation of the modular hotel projects will help improve PNG's local livelihoods, support industrial development, enhance regional reception capacity, and meet accommodation needs for personnel in the energy and mining sectors, said Feng.
The projects also demonstrate deepening cooperation between China and PNG under the Belt and Road Initiative, while providing replicable experience for future developments such as schools, hospitals and office buildings, and promoting green and energy-efficient construction in the South Pacific nation, he added. ■