By Jack Lapauve Jr – EMTV News, Port Moresby
Communities in North Fly District of Western Province are in dire need of clean water. Community leaders say fish and other food sources have also been affected. They expressed their concerns to Emergency Disaster Coordination Controller, Dr William Hamblin in a recent visit.
Mark John is a teacher at Nomad Primary School. He said the water has changed color since the earthquake a month ago. Despite this, the school has continued. But clean water is a concern with the community seeing a rise in skin disease cases.
It’s a similar scenario for communities in the Strickland areas further North. According to Community leaders, 3 children have been hospitalized after eating contaminated food.
Controller Hamblin says his office will organize for water tanks for the affected communities. He says food supplies will also come with water containers.
North Fly MP, James Donald, who accompanied Dr. Hamblin, said authorities will work together to assist those affected communities. Other parts of North and Middle Fly were also visited.
An expert is currently doing water testing for affected river communities in Western Province. Dr Hamblin said the results will be released soon. He says for now, communities must avoid from using the water for drinking, cooking and washing.
Meanwhile, the North Fly District presented a situation report to Controller Dr William Hamblin. The report highlighted shortages in food supplies, water scarcity and break-down of health services.
Dr. Hamblin was also briefed of the appalling state of health centres operating in the North Fly District.
North Fly MP James Donald says relief and restoration must reach affected communities in the next 15 days.
