BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE Western Provincial Disaster Committee (WPDC) has deployed a special team, including chainsaw operators, to cyclone-affected communities to assist with the clearing of debris left behind by Cyclone Malia.
Deputy Provincial Secretary, Collin Potakana, said the deployment is in response to repeated requests from affected communities seeking assistance to remove large trees and debris that were brought down by the cyclone.
He said some of the debris also washed into villages and along shorelines by powerful waves generated during the storm.
“There have been requests from communities to clear debris, especially huge trees along the shoreline and in the villages.
“WPDC put together this team for this specific task,” Potakana said.
He said the team was deployed last week to communities on Simbo Island and is expected to reach Ranongga this week as cleanup operations continue.
Potakana said the team will then move on to Vella La Vella, particularly to communities identified as red zones, where cyclone impacts were most severe.
He said the team is equipped with chainsaws and other necessary equipment to carry out the work efficiently and safely.
Potakana said the initiative was organised by the Provincial Disaster Office to support affected communities to remove fallen trees and other hazardous debris that continue to pose risks to residents and hinder recovery efforts.
He said the deployment forms part of the ongoing response and recovery operations being coordinated by the WPDC following the devastation caused by Cyclone Malia across parts of Western Province.
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