Fears Rise of Another Landslide and Disease Outbreak at Papua New Guinea Disaster Site

A devastating landslide struck Yambali village in Enga province, Papua New Guinea, on May 24, 2024, resulting in an estimated 2,000 deaths. The disaster has left the community struggling to come to terms with immense loss and uncertainty, as only six bodies have been retrieved so far.

This landslide disaster has significant humanitarian implications, affecting thousands of people and putting many more at risk of further harm. The potential disease outbreak and secondary landslide threats could exacerbate the crisis, making swift international response and aid essential to mitigating the damage.

The landslide, which buried an entire mountainside, has left thousands homeless and destroyed critical infrastructure. Authorities are now racing against time to evacuate up to 8,000 people from the area because of fears of a second landslide and potential disease outbreak.

Serhan Aktoprak, Chief of the International Organization for Migration's mission in Papua New Guinea, expressed grave concerns: "We are hearing suggestions that another landslide can happen, and maybe 8,000 people need to be evacuated. This is a major concern."

The risk of a disease outbreak is high because of decaying bodies and contaminated water. "My biggest fear at the moment is corpses are decaying, water is flowing, and this is going to pose serious health risks in relation to contagious diseases," Aktoprak added.

The landslide has also disrupted the main highway into the region, complicating rescue and relief efforts. Heavy rain and unstable terrain have made it difficult to bring in the necessary heavy equipment for clearing debris and searching for survivors.

Australia has responded by sending a disaster response team, including geohazard assessment experts and drones to help map the site. An initial aid package of 2.5 million Australian dollars (1.7 million USD) has been announced to support the relief efforts.

Local residents are deeply affected by the tragedy. Evit Kambu, a Yambali resident, shared his grief: "I have 18 of my family members buried under the debris and soil that I'm standing on... But I can't retrieve the bodies, so I'm standing here helplessly."

UNICEF is actively involved in providing support to the survivors, distributing hygiene and dignity kits, and setting up evacuation centers. The organization is also working to address the needs of the many children affected by the disaster.

The Papua New Guinea government has officially requested additional international assistance. The United Nations is coordinating the response efforts, providing relief supplies, and supporting the establishment of emergency centers.

The community mourns and rescue efforts continue, with the focus remaining on preventing further loss of life and ensuring the safety and well-being of the survivors. The situation remains precarious, with authorities and aid organizations working tirelessly to manage the crisis.

Key Takeaways

• Devastating landslide in Papua New Guinea's Enga province kills estimated 2,000 people.
• Only 6 bodies retrieved, with 8,000 people at risk of further harm and potential disease outbreak.
• Australia sends disaster response team and initial aid package of 1.7 million USD.
• UNICEF provides support to survivors, distributing hygiene kits and setting up evacuation centers.
• Papua New Guinea government requests additional international assistance, with UN coordinating response efforts.