Flooding forces relocation

ATEMBLE villagers in Arabaka, Middle Ramu, Madang, have been relocated to safer ground following Ramu River flooding.
Community leader Howard Bagiro said they had never experienced such flooding before. Water entered their 2m-high post houses built beside the river bank.
“We relocated the people to the mountain area and some were sent to Aiome Station,” Bagiro said.
Gardens were underwater which would mean crops rotting.
Ramu Nico, the Yandera mines and PNG Power Ltd operate upstream. Waste from Ramu Sugar and Oil Palm plantation and cattle farms are disposed into the river, he claimed.
“We will also need water for drinking, cooking and washing, and everyone living around here use the Ramu River for daily chores,” Bagiro said.
“We need food supplies, water supplies and other assistance we can get to survive this season.”
He said government facilities such as aid posts and school were damaged.
“Transportation is another problem. We are not able to travel to Madang to seek assistance,” Bagiro said.
“We are cut off from the province and are wondering when will our government assist us with relief supplies.” Bagiro explained that they have been trying to reach the provincial government, district development authorities and the provincial disaster office for assistance.