·

Devastating floods displace more than 700 in Chimbu province, Papua New Guinea

devastating-floods-displace-more-than-700-in-chimbu-province-papua-new-guinea

Continuous heavy downpour affecting the Chimbu Province, Papua New Guinea, over the past couple of days has resulted in major flooding that displaced more than 700 people, according to community spokesperson, Wesly Noisa. The Wahgi River broke its banks, sending floodwater across the Miunde village in Kerowagi district — destroying homes and gardens, and killing livestock. 

The people of the Yuri clan in Gumini resided in Miunde along the Wahgi River for more than five decades. After the flooding hit the village, the population lost much of their properties.

Some of the victims took shelter to higher grounds, while others sought refuge in nearby villages. Noisa added that the victims were left hungry, unsure of how they would rebuild their lives, as well as where to seek help.

The people of Orkodrugle in Miunde lost more than 2 ha (5 acres) of coffee plants, as well as livestock and domestic animals.

ppg-flooding-march-25-2020

Image credit: Peter Waugla

ppg-flooding-march-25-2020-2

Image credit: Peter Waugla

Local councilor Tapi Kaiglo said the affected people have to be relocated to a safer place, otherwise, the people would have no choice but to return to their homes, despite the area being vulnerable to flooding.

With this, the leaders, including two councilors, appealed to the Chimbu disaster office to provide relief support for more than 700 displaced. They stressed that authorities should assess the event and address the victims' needs.

ppg-flooding-march-25-2020-3

Image credit: Peter Waugla

ppg-flooding-march-25-2020-4

Image credit: Peter Waugla

In a separate tragedy, a landslide hit the district of Tambul-Nebilyer in the country's Western Highland province on Saturday, March 21, 2020. 12 people lost their lives after being buried in the mud, while thousands of people were affected.

Featured image credit: Peter Waugla

Share:

Commenting rules and guidelines

We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules:

  • Treat others with kindness and respect.
  • Stay on topic and contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way.
  • Do not use abusive or hateful language.
  • Do not spam or promote unrelated products or services.
  • Do not post any personal information or content that is illegal, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate.

We reserve the right to remove any comments that violate these rules. By commenting on our website, you agree to abide by these guidelines. Thank you for helping to create a positive and welcoming environment for all.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *