Papua New Guinea Landslide Claims Lives: Recovery of Three Bodies Confirmed

Local officials informed CNN on Saturday that three bodies have been found following a landslide in Papua New Guinea. They also mentioned that the number of casualties is expected to increase significantly.

The landslide occurred in the isolated village of Kaokalam, located approximately 600 kilometers northwest of the capital city, Port Moresby. The disaster struck at around 3 a.m. local time on Friday, leaving behind a trail of debris that humanitarian workers describe as being as large as four football fields.

Three bodies have been found already, but according to Sandis Tsaka, the provincial administrator of Enga province, more are expected to be discovered. Janet Philemon, caretaker and national treasurer of the Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society, has indicated that over 100 individuals are thought to have perished.

On Saturday, Tsaka reported that around 3,900 people have been affected by the landslides. This includes three main villages, where approximately 60 homes have been completely destroyed.

Emergency responders have been sent to the site to help with rescue efforts. However, their progress has been slowed down due to damage to a main highway, making it difficult to reach the affected areas.

The impact area is extensive, with 150 meters of the road being destroyed. The landslide area remains very active, with debris and rocks constantly moving, posing challenges for our first responders. The debris measures about 6 to 8 meters deep, equivalent to around 20 to 26 feet.

People carry bags in the aftermath of a landslide in Enga Province, Papua New Guinea, on May 24, 2024.

People carry bags in the aftermath of a landslide in Enga Province, Papua New Guinea, on May 24, 2024.

Andrew Ruing/Reuters

CARE Australia, a humanitarian group, expressed concern that the obstruction will take a significant amount of time to clear.

The organization also noted that even though the area is not heavily populated, there is a worry that the number of casualties could be higher than usual.

Serhan Aktoprak, head of mission for the International Organization for Migration in the country, talked about the extent of the human tragedy.

"Children are being separated from their parents. Families are searching for their loved ones who are missing. This is not making things easier as people are still in a state of shock," he shared with CNN.

Papua New Guinea, a Pacific nation with a population of around 10 million people, is blessed with abundant resources. However, its economy has always lagged behind its neighboring countries, and it also faces one of the highest crime rates globally.

Many tribes live in the country's remote areas, which are difficult to reach. Due to the vast and varied mountainous terrain, along with a lack of roads, improving essential services such as water, electricity, and sanitation has been challenging and expensive.

Editor's P/S:

The landslide in Papua New Guinea is a devastating tragedy, leaving behind a trail of destruction and countless lives lost. The estimated death toll of over 100 individuals is a heartbreaking testament to the fragility of life and the devastating power of nature. The remote location of the affected village and the ongoing challenges in accessing the area only add to the urgency of the situation.

The humanitarian crisis unfolding in Papua New Guinea requires immediate attention and support. The government, international organizations, and aid agencies must work together to provide assistance to the survivors and families of the victims. The challenges posed by the damaged infrastructure and the risk of further landslides underscore the need for a coordinated and comprehensive response. The world must stand in solidarity with Papua New Guinea during this difficult time and provide the necessary resources to help the affected communities rebuild and recover.