THE ESCALATING FLOODS in Pakistan could eclipse the world’s last three biggest disasters combined, according to the UN. Over 13 million people are now believed to be affected by the flooding, and adverse weather is continuing to hamper aid efforts.
The number of homes destroyed by the floods is estimated to be reaching the same level as January’s earthquake in Haiti. A new warning has been issued to residents in Muzaffargarh, central Pakistan, over fears that swollen rivers could soon submerge the area.
Thousands of people continue to flee the flood-stricken regions. Thirty people are missing after a crowded boat evacuating residents from the Punjab town of Jampur capsized on Sunday.
Facing the crisis: images from Pakistan
Push for aid
The UN is expected to launch a major appeal for international aid shortly. Over $38 million has been donated to date and another $90 million has been promised, but more money will be needed to help the country recover and provide food aid to replace the thousands of acres of crops that have been destroyed.
Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has released a list of articles required from donors which includes boats, tents, generators, and medicines.
Ireland has already pledged €750,000 to help alleviate the crisis. The funding will be divided up between Concern, Trócaire, and the UN. The Irish Rapid Response Corps has been on standby since last week to help in providing expert emergency assistance if requested by Pakistan.
Below is the latest OCHA map depicting the spread of the flooding across the country:
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