Home Breaking News Papua New Guinea Landslide Buries Over 2,000, Rescue Efforts Underway

Papua New Guinea Landslide Buries Over 2,000, Rescue Efforts Underway

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Photo by Mohamud Omer/International Organization for Migration via AP

A devastating landslide in Papua New Guinea has buried more than 2,000 people alive, according to officials. The catastrophic event has wreaked havoc on the region, destroying buildings and food gardens and significantly impacting the economic lifeline of the country.

The landslide occurred in the early morning hours, following several days of heavy rainfall destabilizing the mountainous terrain. The affected area is in the highlands, where remote villages are scattered across steep slopes. The sudden collapse of the hillside sent a massive wall of mud and debris cascading down, engulfing everything in its path.

Local authorities have described the scene as one of utter devastation.

The landslide buried more than 2,000 people alive and caused major destruction to buildings and food gardens, and caused a major impact on the economic lifeline of the country,

an official statement from the Papua New Guinea Disaster Management Team reported. The loss of food gardens is particularly concerning, as these are vital for the sustenance of the local population.

Rescue efforts are underway, but the situation remains dire. The terrain, already treacherous, has been made even more dangerous by the continuing threat of additional landslides.

The unstable ground and ongoing rain are posing an ongoing danger to both the rescue teams and survivors alike,

a spokesperson for the rescue operation stated. Efforts to reach those trapped are further complicated by the remote location, which limits the accessibility of heavy machinery and the speed at which aid can be delivered.

The government of Papua New Guinea has called for international assistance to support the rescue and recovery operations. Several neighboring countries and international aid organizations have pledged their support, sending specialized teams and equipment to aid in the efforts.

This disaster has highlighted the vulnerability of communities living in high-risk areas and the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and infrastructure. The long-term economic impact is expected to be severe, as destroying food gardens and infrastructure will take considerable time and resources to rebuild.

As the rescue operations continue, the thoughts and prayers of the global community are with the people of Papua New Guinea. The full extent of the tragedy will only become apparent in the coming days and weeks as efforts to recover and rebuild begin in earnest.

Source: The New York Times May 27, 2024

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