So close yet far removerd from modern development. That’sthe way it is for Siraka Village inthe Kairuku-Hiri Electorate of Central Province.
Besic services are non-existent inthe village which lies just outside ofthe National Capital District boundary.
The plight ofthe people of Siraka is evident well before you reachthe village. The only access is through this long jagged stretch of road; a lifeline tothe city of Port Moresby.
The lack of basic services in Siraka is astonishing, given its close proximity tothe city. Key services are non-existentoand only a dream.
Siraka has a population of nearly two thousand,the people mainly fromthe Gulf Province.
Their lives are very much dependent on a subsistence lifestyle. Gardening, fishing and hunting is a daily routine and source of income.
The villagers saythey have been neglected for so long and now wantthe Government to assist.
Betthe villager’s problems may be compounded futher afterthe Supreme Court upheld an election petition against Kairuku-Hiri MP Paru Aihi, leavingthe open seat vacant.
This places doubt over any immediate assistance tothem.
Cedric Patjole, National EMTV News
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