El Niño and strong winds damage food gardens, disrupt water supply in Markham

Residents of Ragiampun village in Morobe's Markham district are facing growing hardship as El Niño conditions and strong winds continue to damage food gardens and reduce water supplies.

This has been a concern for both the community and nearby schools.

Strong winds have destroyed large numbers of banana trees and damaged other food crops, including taro and sweet potato, leaving many families worried about their food security and income.

The affected gardens are the main source of food and cash income for many households in the community.

Locals said the damage has come at a time when families are relying heavily on their gardens to feed their households, but prolonged dry weather and strong winds have continued to destroy crops.

The dry conditions have also reduced the community's water supply, with creeks and other water sources running low.

The water shortage is affecting both Ragiampun SDA Primary and Adventist High School, where students and teachers are struggling to access enough water for drinking, cooking, washing and other daily needs.

Ward Councillor Kelvin Sauri said the destruction of food gardens and the shortage of water were placing significant pressure on the community.

"The strong winds have destroyed our banana crops, and our water sources are drying up," he said.

"Both of our schools urgently need water. If the water supply is not restored soon, the schools could be forced to close because water is essential for students and teachers."

Community members are calling on local leaders and the Markham district administration to urgently address water supply and assist families whose food gardens have been damaged.

They said the situation indicates the need for more reliable and resilient water infrastructure to support rural communities during El Niño and other extreme weather events.