August 19, 2006	Saturday	Rajab 23, 1427

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 18: USAID will provide Rs5 million to the government for distribution of informational materials among the quake survivors.

These materials have been developed by the Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority (Erra) and will be distributed by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme UN- HABITAT.

They will ensure that the residents in rural areas have the information they need about collecting reconstruction assistance payments and earthquake-resistant construction techniques.

“We want all residents to rebuild safely and benefit fully from reconstruction support available, said USAID Pakistan Director Jonathan Addleton.

“Getting the right information into the hands of all residents, who need it, will speed along the rebuilding process and improve the quality of rebuilt homes. This will improve the security of the region in future.”

A great challenge in the rural reconstruction process is the provision of consistent and coherent information on where and how to access available services. Clear, shared information makes the assistance process easier not just for the aid recipients, but also for social service organizations.

The campaign will therefore disseminate fliers, pamphlets, illustrations and key messages needed to help the affected populations access financial assistance, understand Erra policy, locate housing reconstruction centres and understand the services they offer to assist in rebuilding safer homes.

Since an overwhelming number of collapsed houses belong to low-income citizens, who until now have not had the financial or technical means to build earthquake-resistant housing, messages will detail how to rebuild houses that meet Erra’s standards for earthquake resistance.

The grant will also help provide information at village level on needs for vulnerable groups.

USAID and UN-HABITAT will support Erra partner organisations that work at village level to distribute illustrated fliers on how to access financial assistance, open a bank account and answer common questions. The support will also be used to print booklets and posters on earthquake-resistant building techniques.