Lillyrose Andarta Welwel, the President of the Media Association of Vanuatu, recounted her harrowing experience during the recent earthquake that devastated Port Vila, significantly altering the landscape of the city. During a media workshop in the Lolam Building, she and her colleagues experienced a terrifying shake that prompted them to seek shelter under tables, fearing for their lives as the structure threatened to cave in.
Welwel described the chaos that followed, with water flooding the area due to broken pipes and loose electrical wires hanging precariously amidst damaged concrete. She reflected on the sheer fortune that the tremor lasted only a short time, indicating that had it continued, the building might have collapsed completely. The repercussions of the earthquake were profound, as she witnessed injuries and mayhem outside, including a tragic incident where a man broke his leg in the scramble to escape the crumbling building.
She highlighted the destruction around her, mentioning collapsed buildings and the frantic scene of people rushing in every direction, including the police and the Vanuatu Mobile Force working tirelessly to transport the injured to hospitals. Welwel’s observations revealed the extensive damage – roads that shifted, tilted buildings, and limited communication access, with many residents struggling to find necessities in the aftermath.
In the wake of this disaster, the Vanuatu Government has begun to mobilize its response efforts, including public broadcasts to share vital information with affected communities. Though the situation remains dire for many, including families coping with the loss of loved ones or the uncertainty of their whereabouts, there is a sense of resilience as residents begin to regroup, search for their missing family members, and come together in the face of adversity.
Welwel expressed profound gratitude for her survival but acknowledged the gravity of the situation, noting how quickly everything changed in just seconds. As Vanuatu currently endures a State of Emergency, the resolve of the community, alongside governmental support, offers a glimmer of hope for recovery and rebuilding amidst the destruction.
In summary, this article sheds light on the catastrophic impact of the earthquake on Port Vila, emphasizing the struggles of its residents while also showcasing their strength and determination to overcome the challenges ahead. The shared experiences of individuals like Welwel bring a human touch to the narrative, reminding us of the resilience found in communities when faced with disaster.
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