Jayawijaya deaths rise

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: The number of deaths due to cholera and starvation in the Jayawijaya regency has risen 251, Antara reported yesterday.

Jayawijaya regent J.B. Wenas said authorities and community leaders in the area held a meeting yesterday to discuss immediate relief operations.

The crisis is caused by the long dry season which have dried up water and resulted in failed crops.

Wenas said people have been forced to drink dirty water as a result. (mds)