Flood affects villagers in Huon Gulf District

Three people have died and houses including food gardens damaged as a result of over flooding of the Waria river in the Huon Gulf district of Morobe Province.

Seven villages in total are now inundated following the continuous heavy down pour since the beginning of this month.

Seven villages in the Huon Gulf district of Morobe Province have been affected by the over flooding of the Waria river.

The Morobe Provincial Disaster team has revealed after its rapid assessments last week that water levels have rose to between 3 and 4 meters high causing all the damage.

It says the chances of increased waterborne diseases are also very high and the situation has further created the opportunity for law and order problems to rise.

The team was on the ground to assess the situation and provide a rapid response.

And, relief supplies comprising tents, kitchen wares and food valued at 15-thousand Kina have been distributed to affected communities.

According to locals, the three deaths were related to the flood disaster.

They also say their food gardens that have been destroyed by the floods will take another four to six months to replant and harvest.

The Huon Gulf District Development Authority is aware of the situation and has successfully coordinated the procurement of essential food rations and basic tools which should be delivered by today [Sunday].