HAWAII: In an important move, US President Joe Biden is set to embark on a significant journey to the picturesque Pacific Island state of Hawaii today (Monday).
His primary objective is to engage with local officials, meet survivors, and conduct an on-site assessment of the extensive damage wrought by the devastating wildfires that ravaged Maui.
As confirmed by the White House, President Biden and his wife, first lady Jill Biden, are poised to gain firsthand insights into the far-reaching implications of the catastrophic wildfires. During this visit, they will not only witness the aftermath but also engage in discussions concerning the ongoing recovery endeavours.
The relentless fires, which engulfed vast stretches earlier this month, wreaked havoc, particularly in the idyllic seaside town of Lahaina. Tragically, the loss of life stood at a harrowing 114 individuals. However, Governor Josh Green has somberly indicated that this count is poised to escalate as search operations for missing persons remain in progress.
Governor Green, speaking on CBS’s “Face the Nation” on the preceding Sunday, disclosed that search teams had already traversed 85% of the designated search zone. Yet, the remaining sectors still necessitate thorough exploration, and it is anticipated that this process might extend over several weeks. With over 1,000 individuals still unaccounted for, the gravity of the situation is underscored.
Ahead of the President’s arrival, Governor Green has articulated his determination to advocate for an expedited recovery process. His message is clear: restoring normalcy to the affected region is of paramount importance.
In a poignant reflection on the forthcoming discussions, Governor Green expressed a deep commitment to the principles of rebuilding Lahaina while respectfully honouring the intricate tapestry of Native Hawaiian culture. With humility, he conveyed that his administration is unwavering in its intent to lend a receptive ear to the voices of Lahaina. The sentiments and aspirations of the local community will play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of reconstruction.
