ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) and International Federation of Red Cross (IFRC) have agreed to raise a fund amounting to Rs35 million for the flood victims.

Besides, the World of Wellness (WoW) Health has announced that it will provide free medical consultation in the flood-hit areas.

PRCS Chairman Abrarul Haq had a telephonic conversation with IFRC Secretary General Jagan Chapagain on Monday during which they discussed the need for immediate relief for the flood-hit areas and agreed to launch an appeal for funds worth Rs35 million.

Both representatives decided to urge international bodies and humanitarian organisations to participate and join hands in the time of need to serve humanity and provide quick relief to rescue the flood-affected people.

During the conversation, the Pakistan Red Crescent Society and IFRC reassured cooperation for relief and rehabilitation of the affected people in the coming weeks.

Considering the emergency situation in the flood-hit areas, PRCS Chairman Abrarul Haq requested for facilitation in the provision of helicopters to carry out rescue operations in the hard-to-reach areas.

Meanwhile digital healthcare start-up, WoW Health has started free medical consultation via audio and video calls for the flood victims throughout the country.

It has been collaborating with national and international NGOs, organisations and individual humanitarian groups working on ground in the disaster-hit areas. It will carry medicines while reaching out to the affected people and consultants will be available 24/7 for free-of-cost health advice to help people.

While explaining the initiative, WoW Health MD and founder Sikandar Zaman said: “A wave of pain leaves our souls shattered once we are told that over 30 million people have lost a place they once called home.” He said flood victims were looking forward to help as their situation was getting worse.

“Many areas are disconnected from the country due to water and landslides, while logistics and commute was limited.

“In this scenario, the WoW Health decided to use all digital resources to provide the best possible medical consultation to control any emerging epidemic in this already difficult hour,” Mr Zaman said, adding that for any medical advice, people in the flooded areas can simply call 033-5555-8626.

Published in Dawn, August 30th, 2022