June 26, 2003	Thursday	Rabi-us-Sani 25,1424

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ISLAMABAD, June 25: The European Union has allocated 2.35 million euros for assisting the drought-affected communities and 3.55 million euros for refugees and host communities in Balochistan, with a focus on the Chaman area.

EU sources said the total allocation by the humanitarian wing of the union (ECHO) for humanitarian work in Pakistan for 2003 so far was 6.05 million euros.

Additional allocation was expected to address needs emerging from refugee camps’ relocation and winter, they said.

Over 90 per cent of the assistance covers Balochistan, where the drought’s impact is most severe and the number of refugees dependent on aid is the highest.

Of the allocation, 40 per cent would be spent on the drought-affected communities and 60 per cent on the stabilization of Afghan refugees’ camps and their repatriation.

The first phase of relief for the drought hit areas will cover the provision of food and drinking water supply.

The transition phase aims at preparing and supporting initiatives like providing livestock, fodder, veterinary help and rehabilitation of water systems, to allow the population to return to self-sufficiency.

The assistance to refugees would focus on provision of essential needs such as drinking water, sanitation facilities, basic health and support for repatriation, sources said.