Vanuatu Seeks Global Support Following Devastating Earthquake: UN
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United Nations, Dec 19 (NationPress) The circumstances in Vanuatu are alarming following a powerful earthquake that hit the nation, leading the government to seek international aid for recovery efforts, as reported by a UN representative.
In response to the 7.3-magnitude earthquake that occurred on Tuesday, the Vanuatu government has instituted a state of emergency for a duration of seven days. At least 14 fatalities have been confirmed, with over 200 individuals injured. Authorities expect that the casualty figures may increase, according to reports from the Xinhua news agency.
To enhance the national response, the government has called for international assistance, as stated by Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, during a press briefing.
Local officials have indicated that the quake has caused extensive damage, impacting hospitals, residential and public structures, roads, water reservoirs, and gas pipelines.
Communities near Efate have also been affected by landslides, and communication lines in numerous areas have been severed.
At the same time, operations at Port Vila International Airport in the capital are facing delays due to damage to its terminal and the surrounding road network, although the runway remains operational. The airport is currently closed to all commercial flights, as reported by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
Access to the seaport is hindered by a landslide, complicating the transport of crucial supplies and personnel.
The United Nations and its partners are mobilizing resources to provide a response, as stated by OCHA. They are deploying response teams, including a UN disaster assessment and coordination team, to the affected areas.
According to UN humanitarian workers, immediate needs include medical supplies, repairs to medical facilities, mobile medical teams, search and rescue teams equipped with heavy machinery for clearing operations, and access to safe drinking water.
