BRUSSELS, Dec 16: The European Commission said on Friday that it would double its humanitarian aid to quake-hit Kashmir to nearly 50 million euros ($60 million). The commission, the European Union’s executive arm, also said it would send another 50 million euros for long-term rehabilitation and reconstruction work in Kashmir, which is divided between Indian and Pakistani ruled parts.

“The situation is grim for people living in the quake-hit areas,” said EU aid and development commissioner Louis Michel. “The effects of the winter weather are increasingly being felt and it is essential that the international community step up its efforts to relieve the suffering,” he added in a statement.

The extra humanitarian aid of 25 million euros will help pay for emergency supplies. —-AFP