By BIBIAN BARRENG
FOUR children were rescued by locals from the flooded village of Numba in Oro province last Saturday.
Nick Maganda of Numba village in Sakarina area said the children were trapped in the village for the past five days.
Mr Maganda said the children had told of the ordeal that unfolded last Monday afternoon, especially of the 13 people from the village who were carried away by the flood including a family of 11 who were asleep in their house.
The children, who were still disoriented and weak, were taken to the nearest aid post for treatment.
Mr Maganda said according to reports from the village, the flooded river swelled to at least 15m to 20m from its banks and washed away houses and gardens along the river.
At least 19 people had been confirmed dead amidst report that relief efforts were being hampered by difficulty of reaching the disaster area because of destroyed bridges.
Reports said villagers had to swim across rivers or walk several kilometres to flee their flooded area.
Mr Maganda also reported landslides in the area which buried four houses and two elementary school classrooms.
He said rain was still pouring in the area, giving rise to fears among villagers that they may not be able to tend to their food gardens.
Mr Maganda and those from Numba village but residing in Port Moresby were appealing for assistance from other Oro people around the country for relief supplies that could be sent to the disaster village.
Contribution can be made to the account number 1000975783 which is under the name of Sakarina Soccer Club.
An appeal account is yet to be opened.
Mr Maganda can be contacted through 72252073, or Benjamin Jawuro on 6881988, or Sergius Javaro on 6704543.