Asia Quake Appeal Raises £50 Million As Agencies Reach Remote Areas By Foot, Mule And Airlift

20 January 2005

As pledges for the Disasters Emergency Committee’s Asia Quake Appeal reach over £50 million, DEC member agencies are getting aid through to remote mountain areas in Pakistan any way they can.

Many existing roads were badly damaged during the quake and have been frequently blocked by landslides caused by subsequent tremors and rainfall, or by heavy snow. Sometimes it is impossible for vehicles to get through, so some DEC agencies are resorting to airlifts by helicopter when conditions allow flight, mules, and traversing difficult terrain on foot.

DEC chief executive Brendan Gormley said: “We are delighted that the UK public is generously continuing to help people who experienced this terrible disaster, and are proud of our members for their determination to reach the most vulnerable communities. Money is still desperately needed and we ask people to continue to donate.”

DEC agencies are using funds donated to the Asia Quake Appeal on activities including:

  • Running hospitals, health units and clinics, (British Red Cross, Islamic Relief). One health facility comprises 14 tents and includes a dispensary, inpatient unit and maternity ward (Merlin).
  • Distributing blankets, tarpaulins, food, clothes, cooking sets to thousands of families (most DEC members).
  • Providing water and sanitation eg latrines and water tanks (Oxfam, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, CAFOD, Islamic Relief)
  • Providing corrugated iron sheets and heaters (World Vision) and tools for building temporary shelters. (British Red Cross). Providing sturdy transitional shelters big enough for a family of eight (Oxfam) and family shelter kits (Concern, Tearfund, CARE International UK, Save the Children), winterised tents and tarpaulins (Christian Aid, Islamic Relief, World Vision), specially designed winter huts (ActionAid) and shelters using a mixture of salvaged and new materials (CAFOD).
  • Helping vulnerable and isolated children to find their families (British Red Cross). Clearing school sites, erecting classrooms, setting up safe play areas (Save the Children, CAFOD).
  • Providing psychotherapy and counselling (Christian Aid, ActionAid, CARE International UK) and children’s play and art therapy (Save the Children).
  • Providing medical care, housing and sanitation for older people and assessing long term needs (Help the Aged).

According to officials, around 73,000 people died in the earthquake, and up to three million were left homeless.
The 13 DEC member agencies are Action Aid, British Red Cross, CAFOD, CARE International UK, Christian Aid, Concern, Help the Aged, Islamic Relief, Merlin, Oxfam, Save the Children, Tearfund and World Vision.

ENDS

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