On March 19, a devastating catastrophe struck Papua New Guinea’s Highlands region, claiming the lives of over 20 individuals due to floods, landslides, and torrential rains.
Acting Director of the National Disaster Centre, Lusete Man, revealed that among the victims were a mother and child, underscoring the heart-wrenching impact of the adverse weather conditions on numerous communities.
“Twenty-three lives have been tragically lost, buried under tons of mud in three separate landslides across various areas of Simbu province,” Man reported during a briefing on Monday.
The relentless deluge has inflicted widespread destruction, causing significant damage to residences and infrastructure, with roads rendered impassable and communities isolated from aid.
Simbu province, known as the Highlands, comprises six districts and sustains approximately 376,000 residents, all grappling with the aftermath of this devastating event.