Six UN experts arrive to help

SIX emergency workers from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) have arrived to assist the Government in its earthquake response efforts.
They would be involved with the National Disaster Centre in doing assessments, coordinate response, logistics and information management in the worst affected areas like Hela and Southern Highlands, said a UN statement.
It said US$1.4 million (K4.6 million) was being used to support the relief efforts, having already dispatched immediate relief supplies such as tarpaulins, water containers, and emergency medical items like medical kits, vaccines and malnutrition treatment supplies to the earthquake-affected areas.
“From the UN in PNG, we would like to extend our sympathies to those affected and to those who have lost their loved ones,” said resident coordinator Gianluca Rampolla.
“We are working with the Government and other humanitarian organisations to support relief efforts and we will continue to provide technical, logistical and coordination support where needed.”
A 7.5 magnitude earthquake occurred on February 26 in central Highlands around Southern Highlands, Hela and Western, causing widespread destruction and deaths.
Prime Minister Peter O’Neill declared a state of emergency on March 1 for the three provinces.