A devastating landslide in Papua New Guinea's mountainous interior has left more than 2,000 people feared buried alive, according to a government official's plea to the United Nations for international assistance. This figure is significantly higher than the U.N.'s initial estimate of 670 casualties. As of now, only six bodies have been recovered from the disaster site.
The landslide struck Yambali village in the Enga province, causing widespread destruction. The exact methodology used to arrive at the 2,000 figure remains unclear, with varying estimates complicating the situation. The International Organization for Migration has maintained its death toll estimate of 670, pending further evidence.
Challenges in assessing the full extent of the disaster include the remote location of the village, communication difficulties, and tribal conflicts in the region. The lack of reliable census data in Papua New Guinea further hampers efforts to determine the exact number of casualties.
The landslide not only claimed lives but also buried a significant portion of the province's main highway under debris, hindering relief efforts. The shifting ground poses ongoing risks to both rescue teams and survivors.
Efforts to aid the affected community are underway, with the government dispatching earth-moving equipment and international support being considered. Traumatized villagers are grappling with the dilemma of using heavy machinery to recover bodies while minimizing further damage.
The situation remains precarious, with the government acknowledging the significant economic impact of the disaster on the entire country. As rescue operations continue amidst challenging conditions, the need for coordinated international assistance is paramount.
