ISLAMABAD, Jan 6: The visiting APHC delegation headed by Mirwaiz Umer Farooq on Friday lauded the Pakistani people and the army for their courage and dedication to deal with the aftermath of the devastating Oct 8 earthquake. Talking to Federal Relief Commissioner Major General Farooq Ahmed Khan, the delegation said the Kashmiri people from the Indian-held Kashmir “salute the Pakistani people” and Pakistan Army for their efforts for relief and rehabilitation of the quake survivors.

The commissioner briefed Mirwaiz and the APHC executive committee member, Professor Abdul Ghani Bhatt, about the efforts made for relief and rehabilitation in the quake-stricken areas of Azad Kashmir and the NWFP.

“Although international community generously offered pledges, transfer of funds is slow compared to the needs of the quake-affected areas,” Gen Farooq said.

“We face the challenge for rehabilitation of orphans, widows, destitute, paraplegics and amputees,” a press release issued here quoted him as telling the APHC team.

The commissioner said that about 748 Kashmiri people had crossed the Line of Control (LoC) at the five points since they became operational.

He said that about Rs17.3 billion were distributed as compensation for damaged houses, deaths and injuries. The first phase of compensation process will be completed by January 15, said the commissioner.

The APHC leaders said their visit was aimed at showing solidarity and sympathy with the quake-affected people of Pakistan.

“We are pleased to note that Pakistan was not alone to face the consequences of the devastating earthquake as the entire international community stood by their side,” the Mirwaiz said.

He said Kashmir problem also got new direction after the successful handling of the post-quake situation by Pakistani leadership. —APP