Tuesday 10 October 2023
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has pledged support for the people of Madang and neighboring provinces impacted by a devastating 6.7 magnitude earthquake.
The earthquake struck on Saturday evening, 7 October, 2023, with its epicenter located at Basamuk in the Rai Coast District of Madang Province.
In response to this tragic disaster, Mr Marape has taken immediate action by swiftly mobilising relevant government departments and agencies to assess the extent of the damage and the number of individuals affected.
In his heartfelt message to the people affected, Mr Marape said the thoughts and prayers of the people of PNG are with the residents of Madang, who have been enduring the aftermath of this significant earthquake.
“Our hearts go out not only to the affected communities in Madang but also to their neighbors in the provinces of Morobe, Eastern Highlands, Chimbu, and East Sepik.
“Rai Coast MP and Labor and Employment Minister Hon. Kessy Sawang, together with the Madang Provincial Government, have taken swift and decisive action to assess the situation on the ground.
“The government is firmly committed to providing swift relief assistance once the ground assessment team submits their reports,” Mr Marape said.
Mr Marape also reaffirmed the government’s unwavering dedication to supporting the Madang Provincial Government, as well as the affected districts and communities during this challenging time.