Heavy rain triggers double disaster in Simbu

Parts of Wara Mai bridge washed away (Image: Supplied)

Heavy rain has battered the Chuave district in Simbu since last month, unleashing twin catastrophes yesterday, crippling access for remote communities and sparking urgent pleas for district intervention.

In Gomia Kibi, Ward 7, parts of the Wara Mai Bridge were washed away by floodwaters 11-12pm last night.

This Bridge serves the main route for residents of East and West Elimbari, Siane, and Chuave LLG and Salt Nomane Karimui District. The road remains closed today.

Compounding the crisis, mudslides at Konoware have buried the sole access road to Kau Basis, blocking travel entirely.

Mudslide at Konoware blocking off access to Kaubasis road (Image: Supplied)

A road maintenance machine dispatched there sits idle due to technical faults, abandoned for nearly three months.

Locals warn that this is an emergency, urging the District Authorities for immediate debris clearance and repairs.

Information has been relayed to the District Chief Executive for swift response.

NBC News attempted to contact authorities for comment but was unable to reach them at this time.

With bad weather persisting, pressure mounts for action before isolation worsens.