ISLAMABAD, Dec 11: The US Agency for International Development (USAID) on Sunday said it had brought in additional plastic sheeting sufficient to winterize the shelters of an additional 17,500 families in quake-hit areas of Pakistan. “As the onset of winter increases the hardships faced by many quake survivors, these supplies become more crucial,” a statement issued by US embassy in Islamabad said.

USAID has so far provided more than $60.1 million in humanitarian assistance and food aid to earthquake-affected communities through non-governmental organizations and the United Nations, it said.

A total of 45,000 blankets, 1,570 winterized tents, and 6,150 rolls of plastic sheeting have already been distributed that helped winterize shelters for 215,250 people, it said.

The agency was also providing shelter kits to assist in rebuilding efforts, which will help more than 528,000 people in need, it said.

In addition, the US military has brought in more than 5,000 tents, 290,000 blankets and 5,200 tarpaulins.

“Helping the government of Pakistan, NGOs, and other international partners ensure that earthquake victims are adequately sheltered during the winter months remains the United States’ highest priority,” it said.—AFP