July 24, 2007	Tuesday	Rajab 08, 1428

ISLAMABAD, July 23: Norway, thorough its ministry of foreign affairs, has allocated US $2.5 million for flood relief efforts in Pakistan. At least 340 people have died in the floods, and $2.5 million (Rs150 million approx) have been affected by it, a private television channel reported.

The floods have driven over 300,000 people from their homes and caused extensive material damage in Balochistan and Sindh.

The most severe damage has been done to the infrastructure, such as roads, bridges and power lines.

Many people urgently need temporary shelter, food, clean drinking water, equipment and sanitation facilities.

Tens of thousands of people have been housed in makeshift camps for the time being and an increasing number are seeking refuge in these camps.

A significant share of the funds from the Norwegian ministry of foreign affairs will be channelled through the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and Unicef, in response to a UN appeal.

Some funds are also being provided for relief efforts that the International Red Cross, the Norwegian Red Cross and Norwegian NGOs are carrying out.—APP