Thousands Prepare for Evacuation in Papua New Guinea Amid Landslide Threat

Authorities in Papua New Guinea have issued a warning for thousands of residents to prepare for evacuation following a devastating landslide in the village of Yambali. The announcement on May 28, 2024, comes after a limestone mountainside sheared away last Friday, creating a massive blanket of debris that has become increasingly unstable following recent rainfall.

The landslide has resulted in significant casualties, with the International Organization for Migration estimating that 670 villagers have died, while the Papua New Guinea government believes the number could exceed 2,000. The debris, including boulders, earth, and splintered trees, now poses a risk of a second landslide and potential disease outbreak because decaying bodies are trapped under the rubble.

The landslide in Papua New Guinea has significant humanitarian implications, with thousands of lives at risk and a potential disease outbreak. If not addressed in a timely manner, the situation could lead to further loss of life, displacement, and long-term health consequences for the affected communities.

Serhan Aktoprak, chief of the International Organization for Migration's mission in Papua New Guinea, expressed grave concerns about the situation. "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 stated. The trapped streams between the ground and rubble have exacerbated the instability of the debris.

Efforts to stabilize the area and assist displaced residents are underway. The United Nations has been asked to coordinate international aid, and an Australian disaster response team has arrived to provide logistical support. This includes geohazard assessments and the use of drones to map the site. The Australian government has pledged an initial aid package of 2.5 million Australian dollars (1.7 million USD) to support these efforts.

Evacuation centers have been established on either side of the debris heap, which spans an area equivalent to three or four football fields and reaches up to 26 feet high. The affected population is estimated to be nearly 8,000 people, including 42 children under the age of 16. Geotechnical experts and heavy earth-moving equipment are expected to arrive soon to aid in clearing the debris and recovering bodies.

The landslide has also buried a 200-meter stretch of the province's main highway, although efforts to clear the road from Yambali to the provincial capital Wabag through to Lae are underway. An excavator donated by a local builder has been the first piece of heavy machinery brought in to assist villagers.

The situation remains critical as authorities fear another landslide could occur. "We are hearing suggestions that another landslide can happen, and maybe 8,000 people need to be evacuated. This is a major concern," Aktoprak emphasized. The ongoing instability and health risks highlight the urgency of the evacuation preparations.

The community braces for potential further disaster, with the international response and local efforts continuing to focus on mitigating risks and providing aid to those affected. The situation is being closely monitored, and residents are urged to stay informed and prepared for immediate evacuation if necessary.

Key Takeaways

• Devastating landslide in Papua New Guinea's Yambali village kills 670-2,000 people.
• Thousands at risk of disease outbreak and second landslide due to decaying bodies.
• Evacuation centers established, with 8,000 people, including 42 children, affected.
• Australian government pledges $1.7 million in aid, with international response underway.
• Authorities fear another landslide, urging residents to prepare for immediate evacuation.