World Vision scales up relief efforts as severe floods hit Pakistan again

Friday, September 16, 2011

World Vision has scaled up its emergency relief efforts in response to widespread flooding that has affected some 5.3 million people in southern Pakistan. 

“Over the past 10 days relentless monsoonal rains have inundated many communities who were only just recovering from last year’s floods,” World Vision Australia CEO Tim Costello said. 

“The current crisis has already claimed the lives of more than 200 people, destroyed or damaged one million homes and flooded 4.2 million acres of land. 

“Forecasters are predicting more heavy rainfall and storms across the country in the coming week and World Vision fears the situation will only get worse. 

“I visited communities in this region earlier this year and it saddens me to think the people who were just starting to get on tops of things are facing yet another setback in their struggle to survive.” 

In the worst affected areas of Sindh province World Vision has so far assisted more than 5,200 people with essentials such as shelter, hygiene kits, water purification tablets and mosquito nets. 

World Vision is also stepping up efforts in its 14 feeding centres in Sindh that were set up in the wake of last year’s floods. With the new rains hundreds of children are arriving daily for assistance. 

“Pakistan remains on the frontline of disasters. In the past six years, floods, earthquakes and conflict have exacerbated the extreme poverty of Pakistan's communities,” Rev Costello said. 

“These new rains mean people are being forced to squat on roadsides, without a roof over their head or any means of putting food in their mouths. Entire communities have been cut off from the outside world.” 

The floods in 2010 – the worst in Pakistan’s recorded history – killed more than 2,000 people and affected some 20 million people. 

World Vision is appealing for continued support for the people of Pakistan. Visit www.worldvision.com.au for more information on how you can help. 

ENDS

 
Tim Costello is available for media interviews. Please contact World Vision Australia media officer Sacha Myers on 0457 926 018. 

Media Releases, Emergencies, Middle East, Eastern Europe & Central Asia, Disaster relief, Flood, Foreign Aid, Pakistan, Tim Costello

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