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| January 10, 2006 | Tuesday | Zilhaj 9, 1426 |
Germany gives $1.19m more for winterization efforts
ISLAMABAD, Jan 9: Germany has provided an additional $1.19 million humanitarian aid funds for winterization efforts in the earthquake-affected areas of Azad Kashmir and North West Frontier Province (NWFP).
The German Foreign Office is further extending its assistance to the survivors of the earthquake because winter has begun in the disaster area,” said a statement issued by the German embassy here on Monday.
“Over the past few days snowfall and sub-zero temperatures have made life even worse in the earthquake region. Many people, above all those living above the snowline, are only barely surviving under extremely difficult conditions. Humanitarian support is therefore still urgently needed to get these people through the winter,” said German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier in a statement issued by the embassy here.
The additional funds are designed to promote, in particular, aid projects run by Germany NGOs already active in the area. The measures will focus on providing winter shelters, warm clothing, blankets and stoves.
When the newly-pledged funds are added, the German government has provided a total of 102.4 million euros for humanitarian aid and reconstruction.
The German government also continues to support the ongoing humanitarian operation with up to four military transport helicopters. A total of approximately 80 German soldiers are on site.
On Tuesday, German ambassador Dr Gunter Mulack will monitor the relief work of the German Field Hospital, aid workers, helicopters and assess further needs of the earthquake-affected people.
As snowfall has lowered mercury below zero degree centigrade, a change in the relief operation strategies will be necessary to cater to the needs of the victims.
The focus of relief activities has also taken a new turn as people fall prey to pneumonia, chest congestion and other cold- related diseases.
The German ambassador accompanied by AJK Health Secretary Abdul Malik will also visit Muzaffarabad to hand over additional medical aid to the officials in Neelum Stadium. The aid package includes field X-ray equipment, ultrasound diagnosis equipment, audiometers, electrodiograph, and other surgical instruments.
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