Supply cut puts people at risk of waterborne diseases

By PISAI GUMAR
LABABIA people of Huon Gulf, Morobe, are at risk of infection with waterborne diseases after their water source was destroyed by a recent landslip.
The landslip also caused the Tabare River to overflow and destroy food gardens and kill livestock.
According to an assessment report from Salamaua council rural development officer Stanley Sakal and executive officer Martin Basa, people were at high risk after landslide and flooding on Oct 14 and 15.
Meanwhile, Papua New Guinea Red Cross Morobe chapter has delivered 41 pieces of tarpaulin, blankets, mosquito nets and water containers to homeless families.
Officer Charlie Wanjar said the humanitarian organisation assisted with basic items for displaced families to rebuild lives temporarily while awaiting the government’s disaster office to provide rations and other needs.
The landslip and flooding were caused from continuous heavy rain along the Huon Gulf coastline, which also caused other rivers at Bitoi, Paiewa, Maiama, Morobe, Waria and Eya to flood their banks and destroy food gardens.
Lababia councilor Sammy Wenes said the community had been forced to search for drinking water elsewhere.
He said seven families with 39 dependents were left homeless, which also affected their children’s education.
“I am urging relevant authorities, business and our elected MPs to help us,” Wenes said.