A devastating landslide in a remote village in Papua New Guinea has left survivors in desperate need of assistance as officials fear the death toll could be much higher than initially reported.
The landslide, which occurred in Enga province, buried 60 houses and is believed to have claimed the lives of at least 100 people. However, the chief of the International Organization for Migration’s mission in the country, Serhan Aktoprak, expressed concerns that the actual number of casualties could be significantly higher.
Rescue efforts have been hampered by the closure of the province’s main highway and the loss of power in the region due to the debris from the landslide. The unstable soil poses risks to both the relief effort and communities downstream.
An emergency convoy carrying food, water, and other essentials has been dispatched to the devastated village, where survivors are in urgent need of assistance. The villagers have also requested shelters and blankets as they try to cope with the aftermath of the disaster.
International support has been offered, with U.S. President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressing their condolences and readiness to assist. The close partnership between the United States, Australia, and Papua New Guinea underscores the importance of providing aid to those affected by this tragic event.