In Papua New Guinea, hundreds of villagers are feared buried in a devastating landslide, with recovery efforts being called off due to safety concerns. The military has declared the area a “no-go zone” and the highland site will be cordoned off until further notice.
With initial estimates suggesting up to 2,000 people may have been buried, the actual number is believed to be closer to 650, with only nine bodies recovered so far. The region is prone to disasters, and authorities warn of the high likelihood of further landslides in the immediate future.
As local residents are evacuated and rely on aid agencies for survival, discussions are underway for a possible memorial for those lost in the tragedy. This catastrophic event highlights the challenges faced in one of the world’s most disaster-prone regions.
Despite the heartbreaking situation, the community and local authorities are coming together to navigate this crisis and honor those who have been affected by the landslide.
© 2024 AFP