Resettlers cut off from Sorong city

SORONG, Irian Jaya: As many as 1,750 resettled families were isolated when the roads connecting their settlement in Aimas village to Sorong were badly damaged by heavy rains.

Some 10 kilometers of the roads are currently inaccessible, making it impossible for the resettlers, mostly farmers, to sell their crops to the city, Antara reported.

In addition, prices of staple goods in the resettlement areas have increased during the past several weeks. A liter of kerosene, for instance, is now priced at Rp 1,000 (US 45 cents), or almost double the usual price.

Traders have had to bring in commodities by motorized boats from places as far as 45 miles away.

Some people are now profiting from the situation by offering commuters a ride on their bicycles or motorcycles for a price. One local, Saleh, said he sometimes makes Rp 40,000 (US$ 18) a day from his new business. (swe)