KARACHI, Oct 16: Tens of thousands of Kashmiris will die in the expected cold snap following the outbreak of rains if food is not provided to them at the earliest.

This was stated by Azad Jammu and Kashmir President Sardar Mohammad Anwar Khan on Friday night at a meeting held at his makeshift presidency to chalk out the modalities of the relief initiatives taken by the Dawn Group of Newspapers.

Mr Khan, who retired from the army as vice-chief of general staff, said he had suggested to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz that India could be asked to give tents and blankets to the people of earthquake-devastated areas.

“Friendly overtures between India and Pakistan could be further reinforced if India takes the opportunity to supply tents, blankets and warm clothes to save human lives,” he said.