SYDNEY, Australia, July 1 (NNN-AGENCIES) – Villagers caught up in last week’s dual volcano eruptions in Papua New Guinea, remain in need of assistance on Monday (today), with Prime Minister, James Marape, visiting victims near Mount Ulawun to assess the damage.
Mount Ulawun, in the West New Britain Province, erupted last Wednesday, blasting rock and volcanic ash into the air and forcing the evacuation of over 10,000 people.
While there have not been any reported casualties, communities within a 20-kilometre radius were instructed to relocate to designated safe zones.
Less than 48 hours after the Mount Ulawun eruption, the Manam Island volcano, in the Madang Province, also erupted, forcing thousands more to flee.
According to the Papua New Guinea Red Cross Society (PNGRCS), close to 15,000 people have been affected by both eruptions, with many requiring emergency housing and supplies.
Volcanic ash particles pose the risk of permanent lung damage, if breathed in, while thick blankets of dust cover crops and threaten food security in the areas.
Local media reported that, PNG’s federal government will contribute five million kina (1.47 million U.S. dollars), to fund relief effort, although Marape suggested more forethought was necessary, for dealing with future eruptions.
“I’m asking the district development authority and provincial authority, to have a permanent response plan in place, to respond to future eruptions from Mt Ulawun,” Marape told The National newspaper.
“This volcano will still erupt and we can’t have such knee-jerk reactions every time there is an eruption.”
As of Saturday the PNGRCS had distributed 40 tarpaulins, 400 blankets, 592 water containers, 300 mosquito nets and 10 hygiene kits to the affected population.
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology declared today that, there is no more volcanic ash being observed in the atmosphere surrounding either of the volcanoes.
However, national carrier, Air Nuigini, said that, flights to Hoskins airport near Mount Ulawun remain cancelled.
“Air Niugini will continue to review the situation and will advise when Hoskins flights can resume again,” the airline said in a statement today.
“We advise passengers, who plan to travel to Hoskins, not to do so at this time, as you could be stranded in Port Moresby.”– NNN-AGENCIES
