Attachments
Date of event
24-05-2024
What happened, where and when?
On 24 May 2024, a massive landslide engulfed villages in Yambali Ward, Maip Mulitaka Local Level Government of Lagaip-Porgera District, Enga Province, Papua New Guinea (PNG). The landslide caused extensive damage to lives, homes, and livelihoods. The destruction left an estimated 1,680 individuals displaced, with approximately 3,979 individuals affected and at risk of displacement. Furthermore, 9,952 individuals were estimated to have been directly impacted by the landslide. Immediate emergency response and long-term recovery plans were crucial to addressing the needs of these affected populations and mitigating future risks and vulnerabilities.
The landslide not only devastated Yambali Ward but also caused significant instability in the surrounding area. The soil remained highly unstable, with visible cracks indicating imminent threats to lives and properties. The landslide covered two creeks with debris and boulders, blocking waterways and increasing the likelihood of further slides.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the Enga Provincial Disaster Response Team and Site Management team, conducted a Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) assessment across all affected wards (Yambali, Pokolip, Kuandak, and Yuyango) between June and July 2024. This assessment was carried out by enumerators through field observations, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews with both affected populations and local authorities. Critical sectoral needs were identified, and the assessment highlighted ongoing risks of displacement in high-risk areas prone to further landslides and environmental hazards.
Access challenges due to land instability and security issues resulted in the affected population remaining at the Mulitaka Care Centre (CC) and within host communities longer than originally anticipated. Restricted access remained a significant challenge, as government agencies struggled to build an alternate access route due to soil erosion and instability. Further complicating the situation were checkpoints and clashes en route to and from the Mulitaka CC, following the withdrawal of security support. These factors greatly impacted the ability of the Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society (PNGRCS) to conduct assessments and address gaps where humanitarian needs were not being met.
The affected area is also known to be a high-security zone due to ongoing tribal clashes. At this stage, the response has transitioned into a recovery phase rather than an immediate emergency response due to the complex nature of the situation.
The disaster response was highly complex for several reasons, which also affected the distribution of household items (HHIs) to the affected population. Security was a major concern for PNGRCS due to continuous tribal clashes, and the safety of volunteers in the field was a top priority. PNGRCS was unable to distribute HHIs, as the plan was to wait for the affected population to resettle in their new relocation area. However, this never materialized, and the affected population remains accommodated at the Care Centre near the Mulitaka Health Centre. The distribution of HHIs will now be carried out through the Australian Red Cross (ARC)-DFAT-funded project once further information on resettlement is confirmed with the Enga Provincial Disaster Office.