Pakistan Earthquake survivors huddle in freezing cold, endure aftershocks

New Zealand aid agency Christian World Service is accepting donations for survivors of the Pakistan earthquake forced to spend freezing nights in the open and fearing aftershocks.

The shallow 6.4 quake on Wednesday in Balochistan province killed at least 236, left over 4000 people injured and 50,000 homeless. Aid workers believe the number of dead, injured and homeless could rise as more bodies are dug out of the rubble.

Christian World Service is accepting donations for the Pakistan/Afghanistan branch of Church World Service, which has so far distributed 1000 tents, 4000 blankets and 4000 hygiene kits along with warm clothes and has distributed food packages for at least 100 families.

Northwestern Balochistan was worst hit with seven to eight villages in the district of Ziarat levelled. Burials in mass graves have taken place in the area.

The scale of the destruction is impeding relief work and preventing teams reaching affected areas.
Thousands are spending sub-zero nights in the open.

Shallow aftershocks are expected to last at least a week. On Wednesday evening, a 6.2 magnitude quake caused more damage in already badly affected areas.

Church World Service says that as well as more winter tents, food, warm clothes, blankets and stoves, there is a need for more burial shrouds. Church World Service has joined local government and national and international organisations to plan relief work.

Donations can be made by phoning 0800 74 73 72 or at www.cws.org.nz

ENDS

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