The current wet weather has wreaked havoc in some parts of the country resulting in deaths and destructions, but there is some good news to all these gloom in that the government has now moved to provide immediate relief assistance to the displaced people.
Prime Minister (PM) James Marape just recently announced the activation of comprehensive relief operations to assist areas impacted by the adverse wet weather conditions experienced in the country.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Works and Highways, the National Disaster Center, and the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), aims to mitigate the challenges faced by communities across the nation affected by the continuous and heavy down pour of rain.
“King tides, land slips, and other unfortunate natural incidents as a result of the continuous rain and wet weather conditions around the country at present and in recent weeks, is of concern to the government,” said the prime minister.
“We have already taken steps to provide relief and address the specific situations through the responsible government agencies.”
Directives have been issued as well already to the Works and Highways Department, National Disaster, and the PNGDF to dispatch specialist teams to the affected areas.
These teams are tasked with assessing and addressing road slippages and blockages, ensuring restoration of access and support to the affected locals.
“Certain places around the country like Gumine in Simbu province have been cut off and require urgent attention to restore and relieve.”
“Other places in low-lying areas of the country like Gulf province are also being affected by the continuous rain. We’ve mobilised the necessary government resources to clear and relieve those areas affected by the heavy rains over the past month or more,” stated the prime minister.
The PM also lauded the Department of Works and Highways for their prompt action in Porgera in Enga province, following a landslip that severed connections to surrounding areas.
“The department’s efforts have successfully reopened the critical access road, demonstrating the government’s commitment to swift and effective crisis management,” Marape said.