A massive landslide in Papua New Guinea has buried more than 2,000 people, leaving the community in Enga province devastated. The landslide, which struck three days ago, has buried more than 150 houses under debris almost two stories high. Rescuers have heard screams from beneath the earth, but the treacherous terrain and remote location have severely hampered rescue efforts.
The Human Toll
“I have 18 of my family members being buried under the debris and soil that I am standing on, and a lot more family members in the village I cannot count,” said resident Evit Kambu. “But I cannot retrieve the bodies so I am standing here helplessly.” The landslide occurred in the early hours of Friday while most residents were asleep, adding to the tragic nature of the event.
Challenges in Rescue Operations
Defence Minister Billy Joseph reported that 4,000 people had been living in the six remote villages affected by the landslide. Heavy equipment and assistance have been slow to arrive due to the remote location and ongoing tribal warfare nearby. Aid workers have had to travel in convoys escorted by soldiers and return to the provincial capital, 60 km (37 miles) away, each night for safety.
More than 72 hours after the landslide, residents were still using spades, sticks, and bare hands to try and shift debris. The provincial authority confirmed that only five bodies had been found so far.
Why It Matters
This disaster highlights the vulnerability of remote communities in Papua New Guinea to natural disasters. The slow response and lack of heavy equipment underscore the challenges in providing timely and effective aid. The ongoing tribal warfare further complicates the situation, making it difficult for rescue teams to operate safely and efficiently.
Bottom Line
The landslide in Papua New Guinea is a heartbreaking tragedy that has left a community grappling with immense loss and devastation. The difficulty in providing timely aid and the dangerous conditions for rescue workers emphasize the need for better disaster preparedness and response mechanisms in remote regions. The immediate priority remains finding survivors and providing support to the affected families, while long-term solutions must address the underlying vulnerabilities exposed by this disaster.
