A massive landslide in Papua New Guinea has buried an entire village, resulting in the deaths of more than 300 people. The catastrophic event unfolded in the remote province of Enga, causing widespread destruction and leaving the community in mourning.
Reports indicate that the landslide struck the village of Yembali in the mountainous regions of Papua New Guinea. The landslide, triggered by heavy rainfall, engulfed the village during the early hours when most residents were asleep. The sudden disaster claimed the lives of over 300 villagers and left hundreds more trapped under the debris.
The magnitude of the disaster is overwhelming. According to local authorities, the landslide demolished approximately 1,100 homes, reducing them to rubble. The affected area spans the size of three to four football fields, posing significant challenges for rescue operations. The rugged terrain and damaged roads have hindered access, making rescue efforts painstakingly slow. Helicopters are currently the only means of reaching some of the worst-hit areas.
Humanitarian organizations have swiftly mobilized to respond to the crisis. CARE Australia has deployed a rapid response team to the isolated disaster zone, providing critical aid and support to the survivors. United Nations officials have described the situation as dire, emphasizing the urgent need for international assistance.
Eyewitness accounts paint a harrowing picture of the aftermath. Footage from the scene shows local residents desperately searching through the wreckage for survivors, using whatever tools they can find to dig through the layers of mud and debris. The landscape is strewn with large boulders and uprooted trees, illustrating the sheer force of the landslide.
The community of Yembali, home to approximately 3,895 people, has been profoundly affected. While some houses miraculously escaped the destruction, the village now faces a long and arduous path to recovery. The immediate focus remains on rescuing those still trapped and providing medical care to the injured.