Oz to provide assistance to Papua New Guinea as heavy rainfall heightens concerns at landslide location | Global News

Australia is gearing up to provide assistance in the aftermath of a devastating landslide in Papua New Guinea, where hundreds of villagers were buried under tons of rubble. The Australian Defence Minister, Richard Marles, announced plans to send aircraft and other equipment to aid in the search and rescue efforts.

The landslide, which occurred in Yambali village in Enga province, is estimated to have claimed the lives of 670 people, according to the United Nations. Only six bodies have been recovered so far, highlighting the urgent need for assistance in the remote and mountainous region.

With overnight rains further destabilizing the debris, there are concerns that the situation could worsen. Emergency responders are worried about the impact of the rain on the already unstable mass of rubble, which covers an area the size of three to four football fields.

Local villagers have been using shovels and farming tools to dig through the debris in search of bodies, but the treacherous conditions have made progress slow and dangerous. The risk of further landslides remains high, with water seeping between the debris and the earth below.

Papua New Guinea’s government officials, including the Defense Minister and the National Disaster Center director, are assessing the situation on the ground to determine the extent of international support needed. As the country grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, the support from Australia and other nations will be crucial in providing relief to the affected communities.