India has announced a relief aid package worth USD 1 million for Papua New Guinea following a devastating landslide that claimed the lives of over 650 people. The landslide occurred in the Enga Province, causing massive destruction and burying hundreds of people.

Among the deceased, 12 bodies were recovered from a landslide at a stone quarry between Melthum and Hlimen in Aizawl district. Authorities fear more bodies may still be trapped in the debris.

The affected route, which stands as the sole lifeline linking the Dibang Valley district with the rest of India, suffered extensive damage along the Roing Anini Highway between Hunli and Anini.

Continual heavy rainfall has soaked the roads along the highway, causing damp conditions in certain areas. Additionally, the rocky and mountainous terrain poses significant challenges and dangers to the ongoing vehicular movement on the highway.

The decision was taken after a heavy downpour of rain caused shooting stones and triggered a massive landslide in the Kishtwari-Pather region. This 270-kilometer length is the main artery linking the Kashmir division to the rest of the nation. 

The incident occurred around 7.30 am near the Solan bypass.  

Hundreds of vehicles transporting basic goods such as gasoline and gas, as well as essential supplies like medicines and food, are stalled in Jammu, Udhampur, and other regions between Srinagar and Jammu.