Unstable terrain, remote locations and damaged roads are hampering relief efforts in Papua New Guinea after more than 670 people were feared killed in a landslide last week in the Pacific nation’s north, the United Nations said on Monday.
Emergency crews are on the ground, but heavy equipment required for the rescue had yet to reach the remote village, as the main road remained cut off and the only access was via helicopter.
Social media footage posted by villagers and local media teams showed people scaling rocks, digging with shovels, sticks, and their bare hands to find survivors. Women could be heard weeping in the background.
Six bodies have been retrieved so far, but the number of possible deaths could change as rescue efforts are expected to continue for days.
PNG media on Monday reported that residents had rescued a couple trapped under the rubble after hearing their cries for help.
About 1,250 people have been displaced by the landslide, which occurred in PNG’s Enga province early Friday. More than 150 houses were buried and about 250 houses abandoned.
Water continues to flow under the debris, making it extremely dangerous for residents and the rescue team to clear debris. Emergency crews are committed to searching for survivors until residents ask them to stop.
Tribal violence in the region has raised security concerns for road travel, with the military escorting convoys of rescue teams. The UN agency reports eight people killed, and five shops and 30 houses burnt down on Saturday.
As the world watches Papua New Guinea in solidarity, the challenging terrain and conditions are slowing down the relief efforts. The local community’s resilience and the international aid support are crucial in navigating this tragedy and supporting those affected by the devastating landslide.
