Millions of people rendered homeless by Pakistan's earthquake are losing a race against time. Freezing rains are already pelting down on survivors. Snow is expected in two weeks.
An estimated 73,000 people died in the 7.6-magnitude quake when it rocked northern Pakistan and parts of India on October 8. Because the quake happened on a school day, 17,000 school children died when their classrooms collapsed around them. About 72,000 people are injured.
The United Nations warns the death toll could double if aid does not reach the thousands of people scattered throughout the mountains. Ten feet of snow is expected and temperatures will drop to -20 C. “Winter’s consequences will be dire. The cold weather bodes a second wave of deaths,” warns World Vision staff member Dave Robinson.
To survive the harsh conditions, more than two million people need winterized shelter, medical care, food, water, and sanitation facilities. World Vision is There
Relief teams are working to meet the primary needs of 75,000 people in Mansehra district. Getting tents, tarps, blankets, and food to people in need is World Vision’s top priority. Shelter
Relief workers are distributing tents, but also investigating other types of shelter, ranging from fiberglass and corrugated metal huts to tunnel-like houses. World Vision will manage a tent camp in Balakot, where 5,000 families are expected to live temporarily. Balokot, a city of 30,000, was flattened in the quake.
Relief Distribution
World Vision is distributing winterized tents, blankets, mattresses, tarps, water containers, kitchen sets, and emergency health and medical kits. Staff members are hiring and training distributions teams to reach 15,000 families as quickly as possible.
Food
In partnership with the World Food Programme, World Vision will distribute food to 42,000 people in Mansehra and other areas over the next six months. Food baskets will contain wheat, flour, oil, salt, and pulses.
Child Protection
Specialists have set up three Child-Friendly Spaces, large tents that provide a safe and clean place for children to play. Staff members are looking for 14 other locations to set up Child-Friendly Spaces.
You Can Help
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Updated November 3, 2005, 9:00 a.m., EST
