Papua New Guinea is grappling with a devastating landslide that struck a remote village, burying more than 2,000 people alive. The National Disaster Center has reported significant destruction to infrastructure, agriculture, and the economy, including the blockage of the main highway to the Porgera mine. The disaster occurred in the Enga province, located roughly 600 kilometers northwest of the capital, Port Moresby. The country has called for international assistance to manage the aftermath of this catastrophe.
More than 2,000 people are feared to have been buried alive in a landslide in Papua New Guinea.
The landslide caused major destruction to buildings, food gardens, and the economy.
The main highway to the Porgera mine has been completely blocked.
The disaster struck the Enga province, about 600 km northwest of Port Moresby.
The country has requested international assistance to help manage the disaster.
As of the report, five bodies had been recovered, but the death toll is expected to rise.
Rescue efforts are challenged by the difficult terrain and the need for heavy machinery, which is hard to transport to the affected area.
Villagers have resorted to using shovels and sticks to dig through debris, which is up to 8 meters thick in some areas.
The area is not only prone to landslides but also to tribal violence, adding to the complexity of the rescue mission.
Humanitarian aid agencies are on the ground providing food, water, shelter, and bedding to the affected population.
Australia has stated it is ready to provide assistance as needed.
The landslide has significantly impacted the local region, where many people rely on subsistence farming for their livelihood.
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