Concern India Forgotten in Kashmir Earthquake

TEAR Fund New Zealand
For Immediate Release: 14/10/05

Concern India Forgotten in Kashmir Earthquake

TEAR Fund is stepping up its relief effort in India-administer Kashmir, following concerns the region is becoming the forgotten victim of the recent South Asia earthquake.

While Pakistan has borne the brunt of the 7.6 magnitude earthquake, Indian-administer Kashmir has also suffered devastating loss. Officials estimate 1,500 people have been killed and 6,000 injured. Close to 50,000 in the region are now homeless.

"The fact that Indian-administered Kashmir is heavy militarised, as well as remote and inaccessible, has meant international attention has been focused on the suffering in neighboring Pakistan," says TEAR Fund Executive Director Stephen Tollestrup.

"Meanwhile, there are grave fears for the condition of victims in Indian-administer Kashmir, particularly due to rain and the onset of cold weather."

To address the situation in India, TEAR Fund is channeling aid through its international relief arm, the Integral Alliance, and partner Eficor, who has been working in the area for over 35 years. Working in the Salamabad and Uri districts, TEAR Fund's partners are distributing urgently required winterised tents, blankets, plastic sheets and warm clothing. TEAR Fund is also supplying clean water, water containers, hygiene kits, food items and cooking utensils.

TEAR Fund will remain in India and Pakistan for the duration of the emergency response phase, expected to take nine months, and will also remain on a long-term basis to pursue reconstruction and rehabilitation projects.

To donate to TEAR Fund's emergency appeal, visit their website www.tearfund.org.nz or call 0800 800 777 or to make an instant $20 donation call 0900 90 777.

ENDS

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