In the wake of a devastating landslide in Papua New Guinea, Caritas Australia has acted swiftly to extend relief support to the affected communities.
As per the update on the Caritas Australia website dated May 28, immediate steps are underway by local partners to perform rapid needs assessments in the landslide-ravaged villages. The goal is to prioritize the essential needs of the victims.
The organization anticipates a drawn-out recovery process, with immediate attention required for food, shelter, and clean water for those who have been rendered homeless by the catastrophe.
The tragedy unfolded in the Enga province of Papua New Guinea in the pre-dawn hours of May 24, catching inhabitants unprepared and mostly asleep.
Official reports provided to Reuters news outlet suggest that upwards of 2,000 individuals might be buried under the debris. An accurate resident count for the province remains elusive due to its remoteness and outdated census information.
Papua New Guinea’s Minister of Defense, Billy Joseph, informed Reuters that an approximate 4,000 people were thought to inhabit the six secluded villages within the trajectory of the landslide.
Logistical challenges, particularly the damage to the regions’ roads and communication infrastructure, have been an impediment to the rescue operations. The United Nations Office in Papua New Guinea reported on the dire situation and its ongoing response in collaboration with national and provincial authorities.
Caritas Australia has reiterated these concerns, noting the precarious condition of the terrain is posing great risks and delaying rescue and search operations.
A telegram dispatched by the Vatican on May 27 conveyed Pope Francis’s deep sorrow for those affected by the landslide and promised spiritual solidarity with victims and survivors.
On Pope Francis’s behalf, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin reached out to Archbishop Mauro Lalli, apostolic nuncio of Papua New Guinea. Cardinal Parolin expressed the Pope’s prayers for the deceased, the grieving, and the missing, and imparted words of encouragement to those involved in rescue operations, offering them the Pope’s blessings for strength and consolation.
Article by Junno Arocho Esteves from OSV News, based in Malmö, Sweden.
EDITOR’S REMARK: For further details on the ongoing assistance activities led by Caritas Australia in Papua New Guinea and for information on how to contribute to the emergency fund, please visit: https://www.caritas.org.au/donate/emergency-appeals/papua-new-guinea-landslide.
FAQ Section
What happened in Papua New Guinea?
A massive landslide occurred in the Enga province of Papua New Guinea on May 24, leaving many villagers buried and communities devastated.
How is Caritas Australia helping?
Caritas Australia is cooperating with local partners to conduct rapid needs assessments and mobilize relief efforts. The focus is on providing food, shelter, and clean water to the affected individuals.
What are the main challenges for the rescue efforts?
Rescue operations are impeded by the damaged infrastructure, unstable terrain, and ongoing risk of landslides, making the progress of search and rescue challenging.
How can I assist the victims of the Papua New Guinea landslide?
You can offer assistance through Caritas Australia by visiting their emergency appeal webpage and making a donation to support the relief efforts: https://www.caritas.org.au/donate/emergency-appeals/papua-new-guinea-landslide.
Did the Vatican respond to the Papua New Guinea landslide?
Yes, Pope Francis, through Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, sent a telegram expressing sorrow and spiritual closeness to those affected by the disaster. The Pope offered prayers and blessings for strength to the victims, their families, and rescue teams.