O’Neill talks of ‘heartbreak’ over earthquake

PRIME Minister Peter O’Neill says the heartbreak of the destruction caused by the 7.5 magnitude earthquake 10 days ago is being felt in the affected districts.
“Tragically, the highlands earthquake has already claimed the lives of an estimated more than 100 Papua New Guineans, with many more still missing and thousands of people injured,” he said.
“The story one mother and her family was particularly concerning, as she had lost six relatives including children.
“They were from Yalenda village in Kutubu, and with their village now destroyed, have moved to Kemerova village.
“This is a story of tragedy and loss that is repeated in village after village in the disaster area.
“The social damage to our communities is large, and this earthquake will be the source of sadness and sorrow for generations to come.”
He warned the people to be wary of ongoing aftershocks.
“There was another major aftershock this morning (yesterday) measuring around 6.7 magnitude,” he said.
“Aftershocks are likely to continue, and they will cause more damage.
“We flew over major landslips today that were not there last week, but took place this morning.”
Meanwhile, the Defence Force has increased its manpower in the earthquake disaster zone to make sure relief supply is distributed quickly and efficiently.
Lieutenant-Colonel Emmanuel Todick said in Mt Hagen 35 more soldiers had joined the 80 on the ground in Hides, Mendi and Mt Hagen.