A terrifying landslide ripped through a village in Papua New Guinea’s Enga province early Friday morning, leaving a path of destruction nearly a kilometer long. The disaster, described by villagers as akin to “an exploding bomb,” is feared to have buried thousands of people alive.
The exact number of casualties remains unclear. The National Disaster Centre estimates a horrifying possibility – over 2,000 people may be entombed. This figure dwarfs the UN’s initial estimate of 670. The remote location and sheer volume of debris, reaching depths of 10 meters in some places, make determining the true scale of the tragedy a daunting task.
Desperate efforts are underway to locate and rescue survivors. However, these attempts are hampered by blocked roads, a lack of proper equipment, and the ever-present danger of further landslides. Locals, armed with nothing more than shovels and their bare hands, tirelessly search for their loved ones amongst the wreckage.
Hope dwindles with each passing hour. Jacob Sowai, a schoolteacher from a neighboring village, spoke to the devastation: “Nobody escaped. We don’t know who died because records are buried.” Evit Kambu, standing amidst the ruins of her life, grieves for the eighteen family members lost in the disaster.
Survivors recount the horror of the event. Lasen Iso described the landslide striking “like an exploding bomb,” while Eddie Peter watched in disbelief as it rushed towards her home “like a sea wave.” Her husband, unable to reach their sleeping children, perished along with them in the disaster.
The once-thriving village, with a pre-landslide population of approximately 3,800, now lies in ruins. The National Disaster Centre’s report acknowledges the “extensive” damage and its potential to significantly impact the country’s economy.
Prime Minister James Marape offered condolences and dispatched the military and emergency services to the affected area. However, frustration simmers among the villagers who feel abandoned. Ignas Nembo, a community leader, expressed their plight to the BBC: “It’s been almost four days… people are finding it really hard to dig them out… They are calling for the government for support and help.”
While police officials confirm the arrival of soldiers who are attempting to clear debris, the rescue efforts remain precarious. Acting Provincial Police Commander Martin Kelei highlighted the dangers involved, “Digging is very hard… We’re worried about further landslides… so local people are only digging from where they can see it is safe.”
Despite the immense challenges, a glimmer of hope remains. Local media reported the miraculous rescue of a couple who survived by the sheer luck of their home being located at the edge of the landslide’s path. Their cries for help were heard by rescue workers, leading to their successful rescue.
The landslide in Papua New Guinea serves as a stark reminder of the devastating power of nature and the immense hardship it can inflict upon communities. The ongoing rescue efforts and the search for survivors continue amidst a backdrop of grief, uncertainty, and a desperate plea for help.
