Cop warns of aftershocks

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NATIONAL Command Centre Response commander David Manning says there remains a significant risk of aftershocks following Sunday’s 7.6 magnitude earthquake.
“Our people must be vigilant and think of the safety of their families and communities above all else,” he said.
“This means avoiding areas where there is the potential for landslides and coastal areas that could be at risk to tsunamis.”
He said the immediate response that was directed by Prime Minister James Marape was the setting up of the National Command Centre (NCC) at Morauta Haus in Port Moresby. Manning said the National Command Centre comprised specialist personnel from the police, army and other relevant government agencies.
He said the Northern Divisional Commander Assistant Police Commissioner Peter Guiness and his provincial commanders were maintaining continued operations to identify all areas and communities affected by the earthquake in their respective districts, and facilitate immediate requirements for medical support and the delivery of urgent supplies.
He said the NCC was working with provincial disaster offices, administrations, and other relevant stakeholders including churches and non-governmental organisations to maximise a collective response.
Manning added that there had been reports of damage to the regional power grid, internet cables, and roads and highways.
“Damage to the Ramu hydropower station infrastructure has resulted in serious system outages across the Highlands, Madang, and Morobe and this is being assessed by engineers at the current time,” he said.
“PNG DataCo has reported disruptions to services that have affected operations of the Kumul Submarine Cable Network express link between Port Moresby and Madang, and the PPC-1 cable between Madang and Sydney.
“This is affecting customers in Momase, the Highlands and New Guinea Islands.
“I urge our people not to be misled by false information circulating on social media, and rely on news information that is verified by government agencies,” he said.
Manning added that the Coronavirus (Covid-19) hotline had been tasked to receive details from the public of any earthquake damage for relay to the National Disaster and Emergency Services, the NCC and provincial authorities.
The hotline number is 1800200.