More than 2,000 people are feared to have been buried in a devastating landslide in Papua New Guinea, which occurred on Friday. This number, reported by a government official to the United Nations, is significantly higher than earlier estimates of 670 dead. The landslide struck the mountainous interior of the South Pacific island nation, specifically in the town of Yambali in the province of Enga.
Casualty estimates have varied widely following the disaster. Initial reports suggested only 670 fatalities, but the government now believes more than 2,000 individuals were buried alive. The situation on the ground remains chaotic and unstable, with ongoing shifts in the earth further complicating rescue efforts. Currently, only the remains of six individuals have been recovered.
The International Organization for Migration, collaborating closely with the PNG government, has maintained its initial estimation of 670 deaths, pending new evidence. Serhan Aktoprak, head of the U.N. migration agency in Papua New Guinea, emphasized that the situation remains in flux and casualty numbers are likely to change as the rescue operation continues.
The sheer scope of the disaster presents significant challenges for rescue and relief efforts. The landslide buried approximately 150 houses under between 6 to 8 meters of dirt and debris. Remote location, poor telecommunications, and ongoing tribal violence in the province are hampering aid deliveries and rescue operations. The landslide also obstructed a 200-meter stretch of the province's main highway, creating a significant barrier for emergency services.
To add to the bleak outlook, continuing land shifts pose an ongoing hazard to both rescue teams and potential survivors. An excavator has been recently brought in, allowing volunteers who had been digging with basic tools to search more effectively for bodies. Papua New Guinea Defense Minister Billy Joseph, along with Center Luseta Laso Mana, flew in on an Australian military helicopter to assess the situation firsthand and determine the immediate needs for international assistance.
Despite the pressing need for heavy machinery, there is division among local residents concerned that further excavation could damage the remains of their loved ones. Military land-moving equipment is being relocated from the eastern coastal city of Lae to aid in the efforts.
Heavy rains preceding the landslide likely contributed to the disaster, according to local residents and climate experts, who point to variations in rainfall patterns attributed to climate change as increasing the risk of such events in the region. The landslide has caused lasting damage to the local economy, destroying buildings and food gardens vital to the community.
Ongoing tribal conflict has further complicated relief efforts, with reports of violence along the only access route to the disaster site. These conflicts are said to be unrelated to the landslide but have exacerbated the already dire situation by delaying the arrival of critical heavy equipment and aid.
- The landscape of Papua New Guinea and its susceptibility to natural disasters is shaped by its heavy rainfall and hilly terrain. According to the World Bank, the country experiences some of the heaviest rainfall in the world, which frequently affects its mountainous regions.
- Scientists have warned of an increasing risk of landslides in the region due to changing rainfall patterns attributed to climate change. This recent disaster follows a landslide in March that claimed the lives of at least 23 people in a neighboring province.
- Efforts to provide assistance have been backed by international partners, with organizations like the International Organization for Migration playing pivotal roles. However, the execution of these efforts has been hindered by logistical challenges and local conflicts.
- Local mining companies, such as New Porgera Limited, have offered their resources, including mechanical excavators, to aid in the ongoing search and rescue operations.
- Additional international aid and coordinated actions among stakeholders are critical to addressing both immediate and long-term needs arising from this disaster.
