A state of emergency remains in place across the island nation and a seven-day dusk-to-dawn curfew in parts of Port Vila was due to expire on 24 December. There are reports of the road to the port also being blocked.
The second earthquake on Sunday has increased concerns, more information on its impact is awaited. Information is also awaited on the reopening of Port Vila Airport to commercial flights. Humanitarian needs The earthquake in Vanuatu has particularly affected the Shefa province. According to information received till Saturday, more than 80 thousand people have been affected by the earthquake that occurred on Tuesday last week, and about 1,700 people have been temporarily displaced. More than 1,200 people are taking shelter in eleven evacuation centers, while others are Living with host families. Immediate needs include access to clean water, food and health care, as communities face increased risk of waterborne diseases. On health services Serious pressure is also being said. There is a need for essential medical supplies and coordinated assistance to address critical shortages at the Vanuatu Central Hospital (VCH). As part of the assistance response to the growing crisis, the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) Pacific Humanitarian Air Service (PHAS), landed in Port Vila on Saturday, carrying teams of UN agencies, humanitarian partners and relief supplies. The World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the United Nations Agencies, such as the World Population Fund (UNFPA), are working closely with national authorities to support aid response. Timely assistance is vital Emphasizing the need for availability of assistance, he said, “We are saddened by the loss of life and property caused by this earthquake. Concerted efforts are important to ensure that people affected by the earthquake receive timely and necessary assistance.” .”They WFP said it is dedicated to supporting national institutions in their response, and the agency’s efforts will continue to strengthen Vanuatu’s response to this crisis.