Bern, Press releases, 10.08.2010

The situation in Pakistan remains desperate. Switzerland is helping the flood victims by supplying materials and making contributions to international organisations.

The floodwaters in Pakistan have now reached low lying and densely populated regions. At least 1600 people have been killed and 15 million people are dependent on help. Pakistan has asked Switzerland for help and the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs has responded. 

A three-person evaluation mission of the Swiss Humanitarian Aid Unit visited the Swat valley from 5 to 7 August. Together with the Swiss partner organisation Intercooperation, they assessed immediate needs. On the basis of this assessment, provisional accommodation for 1,000 families has been bought and is now being distributed. These shelter kits consist of plastic sheets, mattresses, blankets, kitchen utensils and hygiene sets.   

Emergency aid measures are currently under way in which food and hygiene sets are being distributed to about 12,000 flood victims. 

To support multilateral partners operating in the flood areas, Switzerland is also providing 1.5 million CHF. A million francs will go to the ICRC, while 500,000 CHF will be transferred to the United Nations World Food Programme. Swiss Humanitarian Aid has also offered to send its experts to reinforce those of the UN. 

Torrential rains have also hit the north west of India and at least 145 people have been killed. About 500 are still missing. Possible support measures are currently being considered by the Coordination Office of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (STC).


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