ISLAMABAD, Dec 6: France has donated $147,299 (100,000 euros) towards the UN refugee agency’s operation for internally displaced people (IDPs) in the NWFP.

Tens of thousands of people, including 36,000 living in 11 camps and 60,000 registered as residing in rented accommodation or with host families, have been uprooted by unrest in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas since August, says a press release on Saturday.

“We chose to channel the assistance through the UNHCR as we have full confidence in the work it does for IDPs and refugees,” said French Ambassador Daniel Jouanneau.

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees is leading efforts to support the government in areas of shelter, protection and camp management for IDPs. Together with the commissionerate for Afghan refugees, the agency has helped to establish three organised camps -- Kacha Garhi I and II, and Jalozai -- currently hosting 12,816 displaced Pakistanis.

In addition, the UN agency is supporting the authorities in eight camps by helping to ensure basic living standards and that needs are met. Overcrowded camps are decongested by moving families to Jalozai camp.

By the end of November, the UNHCR had distributed some 7,500 tents, 28,000 plastic sheets, 87,000 blankets, 25,000 sleeping mats, 12,000 jerry cans and 13,000 kitchen sets.—APP