Landslide buries village in Papua New Guinea, thousands feared dead

A massive landslide in Papua New Guinea has buried more than 2,000 people alive, prompting urgent appeals for international assistance.

David Rising reports for The Associated Press.

In summary:

• The landslide struck the remote village of Yambali early Friday morning, leaving residents awake.
• Rescue workers face difficult terrain, constant natural hazards and security risks due to tribal conflicts.
• The disaster has cut off the region from the outside world, hampering relief efforts and cutting off access to vital resources.

Key quote:

“We have a situation that is getting worse by the moment.”

— Serhan Aktoprak, Head of the UN Migration Agency Mission in Papua New Guinea

Why this is important:

The natural disaster has created a dangerous situation as rescue workers have to contend with difficult terrain and the constant threat of further natural disasters. The situation in Yambali highlights the urgent need for coordinated emergency response plans that address both the geographical and socio-political realities of such crises.

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