On Friday, May 24, 2024, a catastrophic landslide struck Kaokalam Village in Enga Province, Papua New Guinea, resulting in the feared deaths of over 100 people, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). The disaster occurred around 3 a.m. local time, approximately 600 kilometers northwest of Port Moresby, the nation’s capital.
The Aftermath
Residents have reported that the current death toll estimates exceed 100, although these figures have yet to be officially confirmed by authorities. Eyewitness accounts and social media videos depict locals desperately attempting to rescue and recover bodies buried under the debris.
Response and Challenges
The Papua New Guinea government and police have not yet issued an official response or confirmed the casualty figures. The nation’s challenging geography and infrastructure exacerbate the difficulty of immediate rescue and response efforts. As a country of predominantly subsistence farmers with over 800 languages and limited road access outside major cities, coordinated emergency responses can be especially complex.
Broader Context
Papua New Guinea, with a population of 10 million, is the most populous nation in the South Pacific after Australia, which has 27 million residents. The region’s susceptibility to natural disasters, coupled with its developing infrastructure, poses significant risks and challenges to its inhabitants.
This tragic event underscores the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and response mechanisms in Papua New Guinea, particularly in its remote and vulnerable communities. The international community and aid organizations may need to mobilize swiftly to provide assistance and support to the affected region.
Edited by Megha Chaubey (Environmental Impact Asses. Expert)