Humanitarian Wing Assisting Tajik Flood Victims

UN Humanitarian Wing Assisting Tajik Flood Victims

New York, May 26 2009 3:10PM The United Nations is assisting the Government of Tajikistan in meeting humanitarian needs following recent severe floods, which have killed at least 28 people and displaced some 10,000, including by providing over $100,000 to purchase crucial supplies.

The worst affected area is the south-western province of Khatlon, which is also Tajikistan’s most populous province, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said.

Around 300 displaced families are currently sheltered in two tented camps near the town of Uyali, while the rest are staying with friends and relatives.

According to Government estimates, more than 2,000 buildings have been destroyed or severely damaged and 3,000 head of cattle killed.

The Government also estimates the damage at $100 million with major losses in agricultural, infrastructure and residential sectors.

OCHA has sent $118,250 to buy tents, fuel, and clean water for victims of the floods, which were caused by prolonged and heavy rainfall over the past month.

This support has almost completely covered the most urgent humanitarian needs for now, OCHA stated. At the same time, it has alerted the international community about the situation in Tajikistan and stands ready to provide additional support through its regional office in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

ENDS

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