Rapid rising sea levels a concern

THE rising sea levels in Salamau, Morobe province, one of the most beautiful and historic sites of Papua New Guinea, are worrying.
Lae business executive Namon Mawason, who is from Laukano village in Salamaua, was shocked to see higher sea levels when spending the New Year weekend back home.
At a popular picnic spot, known to Laukano villagers as Aleawe, rising sea levels have damaged and “swallowed” the beach coastline.
He has urged the provincial and national authorities to immediately carry out an investigation into rising sea levels in Salamaua.
Mr Mawason took photographs of the rising sea levels and sent them to The National.
“The photographs show the possible effects of climate change on the waterfront in Salamaua, particularly in Aleawe,” Mr Mawason said.
Another concerned Lae resident Peter Kesu-Sayama, whose wife is from Busamang village in Salamaua, agreed with Mr Mawason.
“I was at Busamang during the Christmas and New Year break and noticed a huge difference to the coastline,” Mr Kesu said.
“It is evident with the coconut trees sticking out of the sea, which indicates that the levels are rising rapidly.
“From where my beach hut stands, there was a stretch of sandy beach a few months ago. It is no longer there,” he said.