Hail hits Irian Jaya

NABIRE, Irian Jaya: Hail, which hit Ilaga and Sinak subdistricts in Puncak Jaya district from July to August, has damaged hundreds of hectares of farmland, according to a local official.

Antara quoted H. Ibo as saying here yesterday the damage had ruined hectares of tubers planted by the locals for their staple food. Ibo said the residents of the subdistricts hoped the district and provincial administrations would provide food and financial aid.

He said the provincial office of the social service ministry had sent rice, but it could not be distributed because there was no transportation. "We need money to charter a plane to take the rice to the location," Ibo said.

Transportation costs Rp 9.3 million (US$3,000). The donated rice is still in a warehouse in Puncak Jaya. (swe)