Bumbu River threatens communities

 By DUNCAN WILLIS

Bumbu River is starting to erode soil along its banks and affecting surrounding settlements and communities along the embankment as the rainy season sets over Lae.

For many in the settlements, around the city and outer areas, the wet season brings with it mixed blessings. 

While it brings water for household uses, it also brings havoc as they find their houses submerged and, in the case of those along the Bumbu River, they faced the threat of their makeshift houses drifting off in floodwaters.  

Talair compound community leader Nelson Zatura said if the rain continue and the river diverts its course, the sandy soil easily washes away. 

“I am concerned because more than 300 homes are built along the riverbank and more than 2,000 people will be affected if flooding occurs,” he said.

He said since 1994, the surrounding communities had been hit by continuous floods and he urged Lae and Nawaeb MPs, Bart Philemon and Timothy Bonga, to help with funding for an embankment to be built. 

Zatura said that although they were settlers, they also voted during elections and must be treated like other voters.

He also took time to thank youths in his community for a trouble-free Christmas and urged them to enjoy New Near in the true spirit of peace and joy.