The director of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Geneva has confirmed the launch of an airlift to help flood victims in Pakistan.
The torrential monsoon rains and floods in Pakistan have impacted over 33 million people, causing widespread destruction and damage and over 1,200 fatalities.
”It is urgent that the aid also reaches the population,” says Indrika Ratwatte, UNHCR Director for Asia & the Pacific.
The UNHCR has stepped up its support for the victims of the natural disaster. Three of the nine scheduled flights arrived in Pakistan on Monday with the others reported to be on their way. Six more flights are planned for Wednesday and Thursday, which will help 50,000 households in one of the worst affected areas.
The agency has also gathered material to prepare for any new flooding in the coming months.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) also warns again about the threat of new epidemics. Nearly 1,500 health centres have been damaged. The WHO has distributed medicines, emergency aid and medical equipment.
