Press Release

OFID extends US$1 million grant for flood and monsoon victims in South Asia

22/2007 July 23, 2007, Vienna, Austria
Press inquiries:

The OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) has approved a grant of US$1 million to provide essential relief supplies and support emergency operation for victims of a spate of natural disasters in South Asia. At least three million people across Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan have been affected by the recent severe monsoon rains, heavy flooding, tornadoes and landslides.

The grant, to be channeled through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, will be distributed among the four countries as follows:

US$250,000. Afghanistan has experienced flooding and landslides that have destroyed houses, orchards and vital infrastructure. Relief operations have been ongoing in 10 provinces, including Kabul. Shelter and basic relief supplies are the primary aid items requested.

US$250,000. Bangladesh has experienced one of the worst monsoon seasons in a quarter of a century, with the most heavily affected areas in the south and southeast. At least 1.5 million people are internally displaced, and agricultural fields, roads and water systems have sustained severe damage. The most urgently-needed items include food, clothing and shelter.

US$200,000. India has also borne the brunt of stark monsoon winds and torrential rains, and authorities in Gujarat have issued a red alert for flooding as 80 dams have reached dangerous levels. Around 90,000 are being housed among 600 shelters where there are shortages of food and drinking water. An estimated 700,000 in 16 districts have been affected by the disaster, and vital transportation infrastructure has been swept away. Blankets, plastic sheets, food supplies and potable water are the most crucial supplies required.

US$300,000. In Pakistan, the hardest-hit areas are Baluchistan and Sindh, where some 250,000 have lost their homes. Emergency relief operations have been ongoing, and according to the latest assessments, immediate requirements include shelter, food and medical supplies.

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