THE Kundiawa Gembogl District in Simbu Province relentless rainfall has triggered landslides, floods, and extensive damage to property, infrastructure, and sadly, loss of lives.
The community is reeling from the aftermath of this natural disaster, with numerous families displaced and in urgent need of assistance.
Today, Hon. Muguwa Dilu, Member for Kundiawa Gembogl and Mining Minister, visited the affected areas to survey the extent of the damage and offer support. He has pledged K500,000 towards relief efforts, which will be deposited directly into CBL Supermarket’s account which is in Kundiawa Town. This funding aims to provide affected individuals with essential supplies such as food and gardening tools to kickstart their recovery process.
He also gave K50,000 cash today to meet their immediate needs until next week.
K92 mine pledged K250,000 to the relief efforts for the people of Gembogl as well.
Hon. Muguwa Dilu emphasized the immediate actions being taken to address the community’s most pressing needs. The Department of Works (DoW) will issue Certificates of Insurance (COI) and initiate the process of hiring a contractor to rebuild three bridges at Mitnade LLG, as well as bridges at Angainere and Koconmabuno.
Furthermore, plans are in motion to upgrade the existing road connecting Gembogl Station to Mondia Pass under the Connect PNG Program.
Expressing urgency, Hon. Muguwa Dilu urged the provincial works officer to expedite the process and commence work without delay.
The widespread devastation underscores the imperative need for climate change adaptation and mitigation measures. Hon. Muguwa Dilu stressed the importance of allocating sufficient funding for such initiatives in provincial and district budgets, emphasizing the necessity of addressing both immediate relief efforts and long-term preventive measures.
He also stated that the K60million allocated by the DoW is not enough.
Moreover, the district’s proactive steps, including funding support and collaboration with the Department of Works, have been prompted by the underfunding and inactivity of the Natural Disasters Office in aiding recovery efforts.
The Mining Minister added that as the community grapples with the aftermath of this unprecedented disaster, the imperative for government action on climate change adaptation and mitigation becomes increasingly urgent.
“Prioritizing the safety and well-being of vulnerable communities and building resilience in the face of escalating natural disasters are essential objectives,” he stressed.
