UNICEF at forefront of Pakistan earthquake relief efforts

30 October 2008 – UNICEF is working closely with the Pakistan Government and other UN agencies to provide emergency relief efforts in earthquake-hit Pakistan.

A powerful earthquake measuring 6.4 on the Richter scale struck south-west Pakistan 29 November, killing and injuring hundreds of people and leaving an estimated 15,000 homeless.

The quake epicentre was located in a mountainous area northeast of Quetta, the provincial capital of Baluchistan – when it struck shortly after 4 a.m. local time. Aftershocks have also been reported.

Scores of people remain trapped under the rubble of their collapsed homes, some of which were destroyed in landslides that followed. Survivors’ immediate needs include food, shelter, emergency medical care and safe drinking water. Rescue efforts have been complicated by many landslides that followed the quake.

UNICEF Pakistan spokesman Antonia Paradela says that UNICEF staff based in the regional capital of Quetta are working with the Government and other UN agencies to coordinate a response.

“UNICEF is taking part in rapid assessment missions that have been sent to the worst affected districts.

“We are also preparing to mobilise our contingency supplies with the aim of providing immediate aid to families affected by the earthquake.”

ENDS

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