Tragedy Strikes Remote Village in Papua New Guinea
PORT MORESBY — In a devastating turn of events, over 100 individuals are feared dead in a secluded village in northern Papua New Guinea following a massive landslide. Rescue teams are currently racing against time to reach the site of the disaster.
The village of Kaokalam in Enga province, located approximately 600 kilometers (372 miles) northwest of the capital city, Port Moresby, bore the brunt of the calamity, as reported by Australian public broadcaster ABC. The isolated nature of the village is posing challenges for the ongoing rescue operations.
The exact number of casualties remains uncertain, but Janet Philemon, Caretaker and National Treasurer of the Papua New Guinea Red Crescent Society (PNGRCS), informed CNN that more than 100 individuals are feared dead. She mentioned, “Access is limited due to the landslide blocking the main highway leading into the community. The residents are doing their best to uncover those trapped under the rubble.”
Various entities including the provincial government, health and police authorities, defense forces, and international organizations are collaborating to reach the affected area, Philemon added.
Philemon also noted that a recent earthquake in the region might have contributed to the triggering of the landslide.
Prime Minister James Marape expressed his condolences and stated, “We are mobilizing disaster response teams, PNG Defence Force, and the Department of Works and Highways to assist provincial and district officials in Enga for relief efforts, recovery operations, and rebuilding infrastructure.”
Reports indicated that houses were flattened as a result of the mountain giving way. Enga Province Governor Peter Ipatas confirmed the loss of life and property damage caused by the landslide.
Footage captured by AFP showed a large swath of mud and rocks on a steep mountainside slope, with locals scrambling to locate survivors amidst the debris.
Papua New Guinea, a nation with a population of around 10 million, boasts abundant resources but has struggled economically compared to its neighbors. The country also faces significant challenges related to crime and violence.
With hundreds of tribes scattered across its rugged terrain, Papua New Guinea grapples with limited infrastructure and basic services due to its mountainous landscape and lack of connectivity. Despite these hardships, the resilient community continues to persevere in the face of adversity. — CNN
