LLGs get K200,000 for relief assistance

By ANTOINETTE POIVI
EAST Sepik Governor Allan Bird says all local level governments in the province are authorised to use K200,000 each to provide relief to those affected by flooding.
“The District Development Authority and East Sepik provincial government will step in where needed,” he said.
Bird said all assistance would be provided on the ground by the respective ward members.
“Our most affected LLGs are Tunap Hunstein, Ambunti, Gawi, Karawari, Yuat, Keram, Angoram and Marienberg. Food gardens, water sources and many homes are now under water in the worst hit areas.”
Bird added that the district and LLG managers were making assessments on the worst-hit areas.
“So far we have had two casualties as the result of a landslip in Balam, Dagua LLG,” he said.
“The immediate need is for canvas, clean drinking water and food. The people still have plenty of fish and wild protein.”
He said for clean water, they would be talking to partner agencies to quickly provide filter buckets or water containers to every affected family.
“For food, LLGs not affected by flood are urged to supply fresh sago, taro or other crops as necessary through a coordination mechanism set up by the provincial administration.”
Bird said the provincial hospital was ready to respond to any outbreak of water-borne diseases. Emergency medical response is also on standby to respond to any critical emergency requests.
“We thank our partners, Samaritan Aviation, our business community, our churches, our chamber of commerce and our people for their support.
“We expect help to be delivered within the 10 days and we expect this crisis to continue for at least six weeks.”
He urged the business community not to entertain any individual requests for help.