LONDON, July 27: UK’s Department for International Development has committed nearly $5 million to help the flood-affected people in Pakistan.

According to a press release, the money will be used for: an immediate contribution to the Government of

Pakistan’s Relief Fund; a contribution of £500,000 to the IFRC; additional specialist advisers and support, if needed and depending on how the situation develops; and funding contingency measures if the situation deteriorates.

Key priorities for relief are: clean drinking water, sanitation and hygiene; healthcare to deal with potential increases in diarrhoea, malaria, respiratory infections and skin infections; and plastic sheeting and bamboo poles for shelter (tents are deemed too hot as the daytime temperature is 45 degrees).

Shahid Malik, UK Minister for International Development, said: “Hundreds have already lost their lives and Britain's support will help the government’s relief effort.”