World Vision aid arrives for train victims

World Vision aid arrives for train victims

The first shipment of World Vision blankets worth US$100,000 along with cooking utensils arrived this week in Ryongchon, scene of a horrific train explosion that killed over 150 people and destroyed hundreds of homes.

A second shipment of aid including underclothing, socks and shoes is expected to arrive by truck in Ryongchon today.

The agency is also procuring water purifying kits, bedding, tables and chairs to assist victims.

World Vision staff admit the high demand for all kinds of relief goods has strained the meagre supply lines into the affected region.

At least 154 people, among them many children, died in the 22 April train blast triggered by electrical lines which came in contact with chemicals used for fertilisers.

Over 1,300 have been injured. More than 8,100 families are homeless and 6,350 are now living in partially damaged homes. The blast destroyed 30 public buildings and impacted an area about two square kilometres.

World Vision is exploring the option of rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Ryongchon County Hospital and the county nursery and kindergarten - an assistance package worth $250,000.

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