Floods prompt state of emergency

PORT MORESBY - A state of emergency has been declared in Papua New Guinea's flood-ravaged Oro Province following widespread destruction and reports that more than 70 people died after being swept away.

PNG's Cabinet declared the state of emergency and approved the use of the PNG Defence Force for relief operations. Prime Minister Michael Somare said he was saddened by the enormity of the disaster.

Oro faces a massive repair bill after hundreds of houses and key bridges and roads were washed away during last week's rains.

- AAP