The multi-national, ExxonMobil, is rejecting assessments made by a Papua New Guinea geologist that laying a pipeline on the seabed as part of the Southern Highlands liquidified natural gas development is dangerous.
The managing director of Geosite Management Limited, Sigl Dorugl, says their report shows the need for a more responsible approach because the undersea route crosses an area of high tectonic activity, making the risk of a pipe rupture extremely high.
ExxonMobil executives have refused to be interviewed to discuss the claims, but in an email, an official says the company has made extensive assessments to ensure all its operations, including the pipeline, meet the most rigorous environmental and safety standards.
The official says the company doesn't accept Mr Dorugl's finding.
