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South Asia Earthquake Update

 

November 18, 2005

 

Note: New content has been inserted in red, italicized, bold font.

 

 

 

Table of Contents:

 

Pakistan .....................................page 2

India .....................................page 19

 

Overview

 

The confirmed death toll from the 7.6-magnitude earthquake that was centered near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-controlled Kashmir (PcK) on October 8 now stands at a little over 73,000 in Pck and in NWFP while unconfirmed death toll has climbed to over 86,000. (Nov-8, AP, Dawn) Quake has left over 79,000 people injured and an estimated 3 million displaced or homeless. The earthquake affected nine districts in total: Abbottabad, Batagram, Mansehra, Shangla, and Kohistan in the North West Frontier Province (NWFP) and Muzaffarabad, Neelum, Poonch and Bagh in PcK. Worst affected districts are Muzaffarabad (epicentre), Mansehra and parts of Bagh. Abbottabad is the least affected district by the earthquake. Over 80 percent of the structures have been destroyed in the affected areas, while continuing aftershocks are threatening the structures that are still standing.

 

Due to dramatic elevations and a larger geographic area shelter and logistics remain top priorities. (Oct-24, DFID) With the onset of winter and continuing rains and thunderstorms, concerns are mounting for survivors. Pakistan's weather office is forecasting as much as 3 meters (10 feet) of snowfall this winter near the epicenter of the quake north of Muzaffarabad. (Nov-8, IHT)

 

Government of Pakistan (GOP) has called for international assistance. GOP has requested helicopters, field hospitals, medicines including typhoid drugs and antibiotics (in syrup form for infants), fracture treatment kits, surgical equipment, disinfectants (for dead bodies), water purification kits and tables, ready-to-eat meals and winterization tents for some four million affected people. (Oct-12, Reuters, OCHA) WFP-led survey recommends assistance to urban areas for next two months and in rural areas until the end of February. (Oct-28, WFP) The Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority (ERRA) is compiling damage data on the city, district and tehsil (regional) levels. (Nov-15, ACT)

 

Confirmed contributions to the UN Flash Appeal stand at US$126 million out of the US$ 550 million requested (23% funded) (Nov-18, AFP) An additional US$40 million pledged. UN agencies face funding shortfall. (Nov-14, DFID). UNDP says several factors played a part in greater difficulty of raising international aid for Pakistan earthquake, as opposed to the December 2004 tsunami disaster: the involvement of only one country (Pakistan), that the disaster occurred at the end of the fiscal year, and the number of other disasters in 2005. (Nov-16, DPA) Due to funding shortfall, some NGOs are finding it difficult to meet objectives set for November – this will probably mean some shelter items in pipeline will not be distributed before December. (Nov-16, OCHA)

 

Pakistan will host international conference on November 18-19 to raise funds for reconstruction. So far, US$1.7 billion has been pledged or committed by world for quake relief, while US$257 million (Rs. 15.2 billion) were pledged domestically. (Oct-28, The News) The World Bank (WB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on November 12 released a preliminary assessment that Pakistan needs at least US$5.2 billion for effective relief, recovery and reconstruction. A companion assessment report by the UN has also been released. Pakistan will appeal for US$5.2 billion during the conference. (Nov-12, WB, ADB) ADB has proposed setting up Pakistan Earthquake Fund (PEF) to efficiently provide Pakistan with required financing. PEF would be modeled after the Asian Tsunami Fund (ATF) for last DecemberÕs tsunami disaster, which is also administered by ADB. ADB says US$1.7 billion is urgently needed to bring immediate relief to millions of survivors (Nov-16, 18, ADB, AFP) International donors have asked Pakistan to formulate a strategy to prevent corruption of aid, to win international trust and speedy transfer of foreign donations for reconstruction. Donors want all reconstruction activities, including those under Pakistani military, to be placed under Auditor General of Pakistan (AGPR). (Nov-16, DPA)

 

UN General Assembly (with 133 co-sponsors) has adopted draft resolution to strengthen Òemergency relief, rehabilitation, reconstruction and prevention in the aftermath of the South Asian earthquake disaster,Ó ahead of the November 19 donors conference. (Nov-16, TN) UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, who is in Pakistan to attend international donors conference, is urging donors to be generous and give willingly towards the GOPÕs call for US$5.2 billion needed for reconstruction and relief. He said world communityÕs response to the tragedy in Pakistan was weak at best. (Nov-18, TD)

 

Total contribution towards humanitarian effort in Pakistan (including bilateral, NGOs, UN agencies, etc): US$2.46 billion, of which US$211.2 million committed. (Nov-18, AFP)

 

Government has started distributing compensation packages to affected families – includes 100,000 Pakistani Rs (US$1,700) for death in the family and 25,000 Pakistni Rs (US$417) for loss of house. (Nov-14, DFID) Government reports it has distributed more than 1 billion Pakistani Rs to affected areas in Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Rawalakot and Palandri. (Nov-14, GOP) GOP is targeting to distribute full compensation in 7-10 days for areas above 5,000 ft, maxiumum coverage by end of November. 25% of affected have been reached. (Nov-17, GOP)

 

Logistics and access to affected areas continue to be the biggest challenge for relief operations. Most mountain communities traditionally have thousands of tons of food trucked up to them before the winter each year. Agencies have given high priority for delivery of aid to high-altitude areas before onset of winter. Proper camp management and provision of aid in lower areas also given priority in anticipation of further migration of IDPs from high altitudes. (Nov-16, OCHA) WFP has recently begun utilizing mountain experts that access and assess the area on foot, and construct helipads to facilitate relief distribution. (Nov-15, WFP) About 100 helicopters from NATO Allies, UN, GOP and from all over the world are operating in Pakistan to help with earthquake relief efforts (Nov-14, DFID). Highest priority for movements via the NATO airbridge is given to tents, blankets, stoves and medical supplies. (Oct-30, NATO). NATO has ended its airlift from Incirlik (Turkey). NATO airlift from other parts of the world including Amman (Jordan) would continue. (Nov-18, UNHCR). UNHCRÕs five emergency teams in Muzaffarabad, Balakot, Bagh, Mansehra and Batagram, working with domestic and international NGOs to distribute relief items. (Nov-3, Reuters)

 

Pakistani army has opened Neelum Valley road that would allow delivery of relief aid by road. Relief operations are expected to pick up with the opening of the road that has been blocked since October 8. (Nov-17, Dawn) Roads into Jhelum and Kaghan Valleys cleared. (Nov-14, DFID) Officials say seasonal roads are often closed every winter, and after snow begins to fall, will not be usable until April or even May. (Nov-3, AFP) WFP reports that new surge in foreign donations (US, Norway, Canada and Denmark), totaling US$14 million, has extended its US$100 million helicopter operation for at least another two months. WFP also reports that accessible areas by land have increased due to road-clearing efforts of Pakistan Army. WFP, which provides air support to UN agencies and partners, continues to work closely with Pakistan Army helicopters for maximum efficiency. (Nov-15, WFP)

 

UN has released Priority Humanitarian Action Plan for November. UN focus includes: Emergency shelter, medical evacuations, pre-positioning of food for 700,000 people, and mobile health services. (Nov-9, DFID) Main priority for the UN is to provide emergency shelter and pre-position food for 200,000 people above the snowline, as well as the 150,000 people that the UN estimates will settle in spontaneous and planned camps and provide general food for 600,000 accessible by road. (Nov-14, Reuters)

 

Eighteen official government/international camps housing about 3,200 families (15,000 individuals) in and around Mansehra, Muzaffarabad and Bagh. Total capacity is for 32,000 families (225,000 individuals). Ninety camps reportedly administered by Pakistan Army (more than half supplied by WFP). (Nov-15, WFP). Pakistan military reports 71 spontaneous tent villages housing some 53,276 people in affected areas. (Nov-14, DFID). The Pakistan Federal Relief Commission (FRC) plans to set up more emergency tent villages in valleys below 1,500 meters (4,921 feet). Many villagers reluctant to leave home due to cultural concerns, particularly, security for female family members. (Nov-3, IRIN)

 

Concerns over 60,000 people reportedly living above the snowline in Kaghan Valley, and another 100,000 people in the Allai area, near Battagram, that are in urgent need of shelter assistance. (Nov-13, Reuters) GoP is currently facilitating movement of people from Ôat riskÕ areas, such as Allai Valley, including registration and transportation of about 100,000 people using transport vehicles. (Nov-11, UN) UNHCR notes that level of aid given to people in camps appears to exceed that received by people who stayed in villages. (Nov-11, UNJLC) Oxfam reports that people are leaving higher elevations at a rate of 1,500 a day, potentially overwhelming camps in lower valleys. (Nov-15, Oxfam) UN/Government camp survey was completed on November 14. Government has decided to close five spontaneous camps and relocated IDPs in order to set up less crowded and better managed camps. (Nov-16, OCHA)

 

Shelter items most urgent relief priority under GOP National Action Plan combining Shelter and Camp Management. Due to constraints, NGOs have begun to use alternative, indigenous materials for constructing cheap but sturdy stand-alone shelters, and tentatively distributing second type of shelter repair kit. (Nov-3, Reuters) So far, an estimated 500,000 tents are needed, but only 392,177 tents have been distributed, according to the government. (Nov-14, DFID) ÒOperation Winter RaceÓ teams, are placing mixed-gender teams in mountain villages and plans to airlift 10,000 shelter repair kits by end of November. IOM is spearheading the effort, along with the Pakistan military, Islamic Relief, IFRC, UNJLC and UNHAS. Pakistan Army plans to deploy 180 teams. More NGOs are taking part in the effort. A six-day operation to deliver 1,000 tons of relief to Neelum Valley began on November 16, with the help of three British Chinooks. Airborne deliveries to other areas will continue throughout winter. (Nov-16, Reuters) Other agencies/organizations, including NATO and UNDP, also stepping up shelter provision in affected areas amid forecasts of good weather this week. (Nov-15, Reuters, UN, AFP)

 

UNOCHA has set up 10 clusters at each humanitarian hub to better coordinate humanitarian relief operations across sectors and to avoid any duplication of efforts. These clusters cover areas such as food & nutrition, water & sanitation, health, Emergency shelter, early recovery and reconstruction, IT/communication, logistics, camp management, protection and education. (Nov-1, OCHA)

 

Based on findings, WFP raised the number of people who need food for the winter from 1 million to 2.3 million. (Oct-28, WFP) WFP reports that it has only enough supplies to keep feeding 800,000 people till the end of December – aims to feed estimated 1 million people. (Nov-15, TN) Pakistan government usually pre-positions food supplies for mountain communities during the winter, but access to many stocks have been blocked. (Nov-16, IRIN) USAID reports that since most roads are blocked or partially blocked, food distributions are occurring at roadblocks as far into valleys as possible – from these distribution points, mule packs carry food further. Accessible back trails also allow villagers to travel from higher to lower elevations to access markets (Nov-3, USAID)

 

GOP, with the help of WHO, has set up an Disease Early Warning and Surveillance Network (DEWS) to identify and respond to any disease outbreaks in quake-affected areas. (Oct-23, DPA) Hundreds of cases of pneumonia are being treated in quake-affected areas in Pakistan. 9,000 Acute Respiratory Tract Infections (ARI), 6,000 cases of diarrhea, 1,130 cases of dysentery, 444 cases of scabies, and 144 cases of tetanus, with 41 deaths reported. (Nov-8, Reuters) WHO says cases of diarrhea have been decreasing since November 16 and the situation is being gradually brought under control. Improved water and sanitation conditions and dropping temperatures have contributed to decline in diarrhea (Nov-17, OCHA) Sporadic cases of measles, meningitis and acute jaundice syndrome reported. Several cases of suspected diphtheria and one related death from Muzaffarabad. (Nov-14, WHO) Immunization drive for 800,000 children was launched against measles, tetanus, whooping cough, diphtheria and polio. Spearheaded by UNICEF and conducted in coordination with the Pakistan military, Health Ministry, non-government organizations. UNICEF considers measles biggest threat. UNICEF has already immunized 300,000 children in the past month. (Nov-14, Reuters, AFP)

 

Health experts are calling for improved water and sanitation facilities, and hygienic conditions around camps especially around spontaneous camps. Water and sanitation issues have become critical following outbreak of acute watery diarrhea in Muzaffarabad last week – more outbreaks are likely. (Nov-14, DFID) UNHCR spearheading up to 32 teams to improve wat/san hygiene in spontaneous camps. (Nov-14, Reuters) GOP is urging international donors who have deployed field hospitals to maintain their presence until March 31. (Nov-7, GOP). Lack of female health care workers severely limiting access to health care by female patients. (Nov-14, WHO). 16 international field hospitals and 20 mobile teams throughout affected area. (Nov-14, GoP, OCHA)

 

UNOCHA says extreme weather conditions, lack of funding and shortage of expertise are causing large scale gaps in humanitarian relief operations. (Nov-18, TN)

GOP and GOI have set up crossing points along the LoC at Nauser-Teethwal, Chakothi-Uri, Hajipur-Uri, Rawalakot-Poonch and Tattapni-Mendhar, allowing people to cross the border on foot to seek assistance from the relief camps set up by the two countries. Pakistan has said that it has set up two relief camps and a field hospital in these areas, while India said last week that three relief camps at these points were operational. (Oct-31, Reuters) The first of five planned crossings on the disputed Line of Control (LoC) opened at Rawalakot-Poonch on Monday (November 7). Chakothi-Uri crossing point linking Muzaffarabad (PcK) with Srinagar (IcK) opened on November 9. Third border crossing on Nauser-Teethwal opened on November 12, following delay. Fourth border crossing at Tattapani-Mendhar area was opened on Monday, November 14. (Nov-14, TN, AFP) Fifth and final border crossing at Hajpur-Uri opened on Wednesday, November 16. (Nov-16, BBC, TN) However, so far these crossings are opened to relief materials carried by authorities, and peopleÕs movements have yet to begin. Civilians will be allowed to cross on November 24. (Nov-16, BBC) The Pakistani Foreign Ministry said that the first crossing of people will be at Chakothi-Uri. (Nov-16, Reuters) Although Pakistan said that it wants all crossing points on the LoC to remain open on all days of the week, it has accepted Indian proposal to open one crossing point per week up to December 12, 2005. The two sides have exchanged lists of people for approval to cross. Pakistan has already approved IndiaÕs list of 83 people, but India has yet to approve 120 people from PcK. (Nov-16, Reuters)

 

Human Rights Watch (HRW) called for protection of human rights in PcK, after November 11 incident in which police forcibly broke up a protest by IDPs that were being evicted from their makeshift camp in Muzaffarabad. HRW also said that authorities have discouraged negative media coverage of government relief efforts. HRW calls for greater civilian oversight of relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts, independent auditing of relief funds and equitable distribution, regardless of political affiliation and background. (Nov-16, Reuters)

 

International Response

 

á      Foreign Governments

 

More than 90 countries, regional and international organizations have pledged more than several hundred million dollars in aid contributions and monetary pledges to the ongoing relief and reconstruction efforts in the earthquake devastated areas of Pakistan. Some of the larger contributions have come from the United Nations South Asia Earthquake Consolidated Flash Appeal calling for US$ 550 million in pledges, the ICRC appeal calling for US$117 million, the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank, and contributions made by individual nations directly to the Pakistani government. Some of the largest monetary contributions from individual nations are coming from Australia, Britain, Canada, China, the European Union, Japan, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Norway, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. The United Nations Emergency Response Pakistan website has posted several reports attempting to track the status and quantities of the incoming aid from a number of various governments, regional, and international organizations. http://earthquake05.un.org.pk/ In addition to these efforts, a number of NGOs have initiated their own appeals for their relief and reconstruction efforts in the earthquake-devastated areas. Navy Rear Admiral Michael LeFever, commander of the US Disaster Assistance Center in Pakistan, said that the US is expected to increase its relief force in coming days to about 1,200 from the current 975. (Nov-10, Reuters) Number of US helicopters in operation is 24. (Nov-10, US DoS) India sent a third consignment of 600 tons of relief to Pakistan by train. Pakistan has also been permitted to source relief items from India. (Nov-17, PTI)

 

 

Sector Status

Affected Population

Death toll is at 73,320; injured is at 69,392 (Nov-16, OCHA)

 

4 million affected; estimated 3.3 million displaced or homeless scattered across 15,000 villages. (Nov-1, OCHA) Nearly half of the four million affected people are in PcK and another 1.3 million in NWFP.

 

Kohistan (population 500,000, north of Battagram) has been identified as one of the most neglected districts in the region. (Nov-17, IFRC)

 

UNICEF estimates some 1.6 million to 2.2 million children were affected by the earthquake and 17,000 children killed while attending school. (Oct-31, AFP) UNICEF estimated earlier some 50-60 percent of the dead victims are children and some 32,000 young people had died while another 42,000 were injured. (Oct-18, Reuters)

 

Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) issued guidelines regarding key gender issues to ensure that women are ensured access to emergency relief. Women in the region are often chaperoned and their mobility, especially for widows, may be restricted following the quake. (Nov-15, IASC) USAID notes that relief items often distributed first to men, then female-headed households. (Nov-10, USAID)

 

Coordination

Clusters in Muzaffarabad have started looking at planning beyond November – contingent on funding. (Nov-17, OCHA)

 

UN Humanitarian Information Center (HIC) in Pakistan has finalized data standardization of locations in affected areas to better coordinate relief and development to overcome problem of different names for same place. Database has listed nearly 6,500 small and large communities in 30,000 square km (11,580 square miles) affected area. (Nov-15, IRIN)

 

Fifth and final border crossing at Hajpur-Uri opened Wednesday. (Nov-16, BBC, TN)

 

Area Humanitarian Coordinator led inter-agency needs assessment mission consisting of UNICEF, WFP, WHO, UNHCR and OCHA representatives to Lipa Vally, located just below Neelum Valley. (Nov-16, OCHA)

 

The UN Early Recovery Framework prepared ahead of the November 19 conference will reflect activities essential to the transition from relief to reconstruction. (Nov-16, OCHA)

 

A joint mission between OCHA/UNEP and the Ministry of Environment focusing on the impact on natural resources has been completed. Findings have been presented to the Ministry of Environment. (Nov-16, OCHA)

 

GOP has established a ÒPrime Minister Relief CellÓ in Islamabad for help in locating family members. Hotline Tel: (+9251) 9222666.

 

ÒEarthquake Relief CellÓ has been established in the Prime MinisterÕs House. The 24-hour hotlines will receive complaints from the earthquake-affected. (+9251) 9213891 or (+9251) 92229999.

 

Reconstruction donor conference to be held in Islamabad on November 19. (Nov-11, DFID)

 

According to DFID, the UN released its Priority Action Plan for November, which includes support for 200,000 persons living in areas above the snow line as well as some 150,000 people the UN estimates will settle in camps. The focus includes emergency shelter, medical evacuations, pre-positioning of food for 700,000 and mobile health services. (Nov-9, DFID)

 

Rawalkot-Poonch crossing on LoC opened - Monday (November 7). Chakothi-Uri opened - Wednesday (November 9). Teetwal-Nauser opened Saturday (November 12). Tattapani-Menhar opened on November 14; Hajipur-Uri - due to open on November 16. (Nov-14, AFP)

 

The UN has created 4 humanitarian hubs in Muzaffarabad, Bagh, Mansehra, and Batagram. Balakot being considered. (Nov-8, OCHA)

 

Ten sectoral coordination clusters were established to bring together the government, UN agencies, NGOs, IOs, militaries, and donors. (Oct-22, UNOCHA) These clusters cover areas such as food & nutrition, water & sanitation, health, emergency shelter, early recovery and reconstruction, IT/communication, logistics, camp management, protection and education. (Nov-1, OCHA) Detailed cluster information (meeting minutes, contact information) is posted at: www.un.org.pk. (Nov-8, OCHA)

 

GOP presented its National Action Plan on November 1 which will provide a framework for the development of the international aid response. (Nov-1, OCHA)

 

The GOP formed a 7-member Civil Services Special Task Force. In addition to coordination, the task force will supervise foreign relief workers, NGOs, and volunteers. The task force will work under the Federal Relief Commissioner. Saeed Ahmed Khan is chief coordinator; Ishtiaq Ahmed is coordinator for NWFP; Tariq Khosa is coordinator for PCK; Qasim Niaz is coordinator for donor agencies; Arifa Sofi is coordinator for NGOs; Mohsin Rizvi is coordinator for foreign offices; and Dr. Ashfaq is coordinator for health services. (Oct-19, GOP)

 

Federal Relief Commission will coordinate rescue and relief operations. Major General Muhammad Farooq Javed, Chairman of the Prime MinisterÕs Inspection Commission will head the Commission.

 

A Humanitarian Information Centre (HIC) has been set up within the UNDAC/UN coordination centre. (Oct-14, UNOCHA)

HIC has finalized data standardization of locations across the affected region to better coordinate relief and development activities. (Nov-16, IRIN) The NATO Deployed Joint Task Force (DJTF) is coordinating NATO relief activities with Pakistani officials. (Oct-27, Dawn)

 

Pakistani army has opened three more military bases at Dhamial, Peshawar and Tarbela to assist in relief operations. Army is operating six forward bases in Muzaffarabad, Bagh, Rawalkot, Balakot, Batgram and Mansehra. The army has also set up three main reporting and information centers at Havelian, Mansehra, and Gahri Habibullah. (Oct-27, DPA) Network of some 45 Army points in place. There are six major points, three each in NWFP at Mansehra, Balakot and Batagram, and Muzaffarabad, Bagh and Rawalkot in PcK. (Oct-19, Jang)

Logistics

Pakistani army has opened Neelum Valley road that would allow delivery of relief aid by road. Relief operations are expected to pick up, however, some parts are considered hazardous. (Nov-17, Dawn)

 

A US military rapid refueling point (RRP) has been set up in Muzaffarabad. (Nov-16, DPA)

 

According to OCHA, after an intensive training course for 10 logisticians, the UN Logistics Support System (LSS) is now fully functional at the two WHO warehouses in Mansehra and Muzaffarabad as well as at the Ministry of Health pharmacy at Abbas Hospital in Muzaffarabad. (Nov-16, OCHA)

 

Oxfam International says that at least 1,500 a day are leaving the mountains for lower areas. (Nov-15, Oxfam)

 

Teams of mountain experts known as ÒQuake JumpersÓ are being assembled to reach remote affected communities. WFP will be providing air support, communications and survival packs for the operation. Plan is to eventually open up 25 new helipads. (Nov-14, WFP)

 

WFP says it welcomes recent donations of US$14 million, which will extend helicopter operations in affected areas for at least another two months. (Nov-15, WFP)

 

Concerns over some 60,000 people in Kaghan Valley and 100,000 people in Allai Valley living above the snow line. (Nov-14, DFID)

 

Pakistan military reportedly building new road in Neelum Valley but concerns it may not be finished before winter sets in. Estimated population is 160,000 to 200,000. (Nov-14, DFID)

 

98 helicopters operational, another 8 in the pipeline. (Nov. 14, UNJLC)

 

PakistanÕs weather bureau is forecasting snowfalls this winter of as much as 3 meters (10 feet) north of Muzzaffarabad. (Nov-8, IHT)

 

OCHA says valley roads are open except for Neelum Valley, which needs another 3-4 weeks. OCHA requesting aid agencies move their commodities to the principle Forward Operating Bases of Bagh, Muzaffarabad, and Abbatobad as directed by UNJLC/UNHAS, where distribution by helicopter will take place. (Nov-8, OCHA)

 

OCHA says an Interagency Transport and Logistic Operations Plan have been created and the recently created Joint Government/UN Logistics Cell is operating. (Nov-1, OCHA)

 

A UN Joint Logistics Center (UNJLC) cell has been created within the UN Coordination Centre in Islamabad together with UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS). (Oct-14, UNOCHA)

 

A joint NATO-UNHCR air bridge from Incirlik airbase in Turkey will ferry aid from UNHCRÕs regional warehouse in Iskenderun. (Oct-19, UNHCR)

 

Access into Alai Valley is limited because of poor roads that are susceptible to landslides – access is generally by light vehicles, not heavy trucks. (Nov-11, UNJLC)

 

International Financial Assistance

IRC, CRS, WVI, SC, CARE, and Mercy Corps are urging international donors for more funding, warning that a second wave of deaths could occur if inadequate funds received. (Nov-17, CRS)

 

GOP has asked the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approval for loan savings from 8 Asian Development Fund (ADF) loans up to US$105 million to be used as quick-disbursements. (Nov-16, ADB)

 

International donors have asked Pakistan to formulate a strategy to prevent corruption of aid, to win international trust and speedy transfer of foreign donations for reconstruction. Donors want all reconstruction activities, including those under Pakistani military, to be placed under Auditor General of Pakistan (AGPR). (Nov-16, DPA)

 

Indian foreign ministry said it would send more relief aid to Pakistan following the opening of the fifth border crossing for aid supplies to pass across the LoC. (Nov-17, Dawn)

 

The World Bank (WB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on November 12 released a preliminary assessment report saying that Pakistan needs at least US$5.2 billion for effective relief, recovery and reconstruction in areas affected by the devastating October 8 earthquake. About US$1.092 billion was estimated for relief, US$205 million for death/injury compensation, US$301 million for early recovery and US$97 million for the restoration of livelihoods. In addition, US$3.5 billion was estimated for the physical reconstruction of housing, schools, health facilities and other public infrastructure in North West Frontier Province (NWFP) and Pakistan-controlled Kashmir (PcK). About US$450 million has been estimated for short-term reconstruction, while US$3.053 billion has been estimated for long-term reconstruction. The assessment, which was launched on October 24, comes ahead of an international donor conference on November 19 in Islamabad.

 

UN Flash Appeal is currently 29.3% funded, including both US$120 million and US$40 million pledged against a requested US$550 million. (Nov-16, OCHA)

Food

WFP says starting next month it will increase food rations for wheat flour from 75 kilograms (165 pounds) to 100 kilograms (220 pounds) per family per month. Households have been issued ration cards and WFP has set up 119 strategically placed distribution points throughout Muzaffarabad where survivors could get wheat flour, pulses, vegetable oil and salt (Nov-16, IRIN).

 

Pakistan government usually pre-positions food supplies for mountain communities during the winter, but access to many stocks have been blocked. (Nov-16, IRIN)

 

WFP is saying starting next month it will increase food rations for wheat flour from 75 kilograms (165 pounds) to 100 kilograms (220 pounds) per family per month. Households have been issued ration cards and WFP has set up 119 strategically placed distribution points throughout Muzaffarabad where survivors could get wheat flour, pulses, vegetable oil and salt (Nov-16, IRIN).

 

Priority areas for food distribution are Neelum Valley, Jehlum Valley, Allai and Kaghan. OCHA says that the amount of food sent to Neelum and Jehlum Valley and staff for distribution has to increase. (Nov-16, OCHA)

 

FAO says 200,000 livestock have died, and storage facilities for livestock feed are needed. (Nov-16, UNOCHA)

 

WFP Emergency Operation is aiming to meet the needs of some 1 million people. Of these, some 823,000 have been reached. Some 8,835 tons of food has been dispatched. (Nov-11, WFP)

 

WFP says that 2.3 million people in need of food aid for at least 2 months in urban areas and at least 4 months in rural areas. (Nov-2, WFP)

 

WFP says six out of nine districts affected by the earthquake were in the most food insecure parts of Pakistan. According to an assessment carried out by WFP with support from UNICEF and Oxfam, priority should be given to the estimated 200,000 people living in the most difficult to reach areas in Neelam, Jahlum, Kargan and Naran Valley as well as upper parts of Alai which may soon become cut off by snow for several months. Half of rural households lost most or all of their grain and a quarter of livestock was killed. (Oct-28, WFP)

Water and Sanitation

UNICEF, WHO and local government finalizing agreement for comprehensive solid waste collection and disposal in Muzaffarabad. New partners have been arriving and expressing interest in working in rural areas. UNICEF in process of signing MoU with the local government on providing wat/san services to rural population. (Nov-17, OCHA)

 

UNICEF and its partners have set up water points, latrines and bathrooms in organized camps. (Nov-14, UNNS)

 

In response to outbreaks of diarrhea, UNHCR has deployed mobile teams to fix water and sanitation problems in relief camps. (Nov-11, UNHCR)

 

UAE Armed Forces have set up four water purification plants in Balakot (3) and Muzaffarabad (1). Each of the plants will purify some 10,000 gallons of water. (Nov-11, UAE)

 

Camp Management Cluster headed by UNHCR, is providing technical support to 18 planned GOP camps where some 10,000 are living. Priority is to provide sanitation, water supply and health care by end of November. (Nov-9, UNCT)

 

Oxfam has restored a supply of clean water to some 100,000 people and plans to provide water to an additional 500,000. At hospitals in Hazara and Hazaram, Oxfam providing wat/san services. In Balakot, Oxfam working in five camps to fix latrines and pipelines. (Nov-5, Oxfam)

 

In Muzaffarabad, water supply has been some 90% restored. In Mansehra and Rawalakot, the water supply systems have been repaired. In Bagh, water supply system has been restored to the main tank which serves 50,000 people. In Balakot and Batagram, IFRC has provided mobile treatment plants, serving 40,000. (Nov-8, OCHA)

 

Oxfam says it has started installing sanitation facilities in emergency settlements in and around the city of Bagh. About 70 percent of the cityÕs water supply was reportedly destroyed form the quake. Medecins sans Frontieres (Belgium), Islamic Relief and Muslim Hands will take care of the rest of the camps. (Nov-7, IRIN)

 

OCHA planning figures say 3.2-3.5 million require Wat/San support. (Nov-1, OCHA)

Public Health/Medical

IFRC began distributing special large tents and support items to some 200 Pakistani women health workers, who will use the tents to provide basic health services. (Nov-16, IFRC)

 

A reported outbreak of acute watery diarrhea has been brought under control with less reported cases form the Old University camp in Muzaffarabad. However, diarrhea remains a concern especially as populations increase in self-settled camps. (Nov-16, UNOCHA)

 

15 international field hospitals and 19 mobile medical teams are reported throughout the affected area. 9 mental health teams have been mobilized. (Nov-17, GOP, OCHA) WHO is providing health kits and training to more than 200 volunteer health workers. (Nov-16, OCHA)

 

Acute Respiratory Tract Infections continue to be the highest reported condition. (Nov-17, WHO) Sporadic cases of measles, meningitis, and acute jaundice syndrome reported. Several cases of Diptheria and one death from remote areas in Muzaffarabad. Vaccinations against tetanus, polio, measles continues. (Nov-14, DFID) Pakistani health officials are leading team of doctors to immunize some 800,000 children under 15 years of age in the next two weeks against measles, tetanus, whooping cough, polio and diphtheria before winter arrives. (Nov-13, Reuters) Some 582 teams of vaccinators will be deployed. (Nov-16, UNICEF)

 

76 teams (44 international and 32 MoH) are providing primary health care through mobile and other units. 9 mental health teams have been established to provide psychosocial support. (Nov-14, UNOCHA)

 

60-bed NATO hospital became operational on November 9 in Bagh district in PcK. (Nov-9, AFP)

 

UN Population Fund (UNFPA) says that more than 17,000 women due to give birth in the next two months. UNFPA says that it is providing delivery kits, and other medical supplies. (Nov-9, DPA) Need for female medical staff stressed by UNOCHA. (Nov-8, UNOCHA)

 

ICRC says medical evacuations down to less than 10 per day. (Nov-10)

 

UNOCHA planning figures cite some 3.2 million to 3.5 million need medical care. (Nov-1, OCHA) More than 79,000 injured.

 

As part of NATOÕs aid, first military field hospital from the Netherlands began operating Wednesday (November 9) in central Bagh district of PcK. It is the second field hospital in Bagh after MSF opened one. (Nov-10, IRIN) 21 international field hospitals operational, with bed capacity for 1,252 patients. 13 mobile medical teams (Nov-7, DFID)

 

WHO says that latest assessments show 291 health facilities destroyed and 74 partially damaged out of a total of 564. Less than half continue to operate. (Oct-28, WHO) OCHA reports that up to 4 million people require primary health facilities, 75,000 hospital treatment, with 9,000 pregnant women and 600,000 children under five, as well as those disabled, in acute need of treatment. (Nov-1, OCHA)

 

A joint WHO/Ministry of Health operations center has been established in Islamabad to coordinate health efforts. (Oct-12, WHO) The Health Emergency Operations Centre (HEOC), is located at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences. (Oct-14, UNOCHA) WHO field offices are operational in five of the most affected locations: Bagh, Balakot, Mansehra, Muzaffarabad, and Rawalkot. (Oct-25, USAID)

 

A telephone-based outbreak alert and notification system is fully operational in Muzaffarabad. (Nov-7, WHO) WHO and the Ministry of Health have set up an Early Warning and Response Network (EWARN), starting with Muzaffarabad, to quickly identify and respond to outbreaks. (Oct-21, GOP)

 

WHO has set up a website to facilitate information exchange between health partners at www.whopak.org. (Oct-17, UNOCHA)

Shelter

Hundreds of spontaneous camps are reported in each valley – some under management of different religious and political parties with little experience in the field. UNHCR assisting in 44 planned and spontaneous camps; Pakistan military running 71 camps – total camp population unknown. (Nov-17, OCHA)

 

GOP moving towards transitional shelter – providing 200,000 iron sheets to help in winterization. Temporary Shelter Construction teams will be mobilized to build shelters for vulnerable families. Shelter cluster members determining how to complement the sheets to provide complete shelter kit. (Nov-17, OCHA)

 

UNHCR and government discussing which camps need to be closed or relocated. New sites for camps for approximately 8,000 people (out of 10,000 to be relocated) have been identified. More sites still needed. (Nov-17, OCHA)

 

UN-led emergency Shelter Cluster is in discussion with Early Recovery Cluster, Camp Management Cluster, Water-Sanitation Cluster and other about merging roles in transitional shelter. (Nov-17, UN)

 

IDPs prefer spontaneous camps because of perceived fewer restrictions and more space to shelter their livestock, an important livelihood source. (Nov-17, USAID)

 

UNDP has launched an initiative this week to help some 30,000 families in high-altitude areas to build locally designed winterized shelters from rubble and locally available materials. (Nov-14, UNNS)

 

According to IOM, helicopters will begin an airlift of 180 tons of IOM shelter repair, materials and blankets to Kuttan in Upper Neelum Valley as part of ÒOperation Winter Race,Ó a plan to airlift 10,000 shelter repair kits by the end of November to communities above 5,000 ft cut off from road access. (Nov-15, IOM) A total of 565 shelter kits has been delivered to high altitude communities in Neelum Valley, benefiting some 3,500 people. As of November 13, the Pakistani military has built 800 shelters. (Nov-16, OCHA)

 

NATO and Pakistani staff will reportedly move to areas above 5,000 feet to build winterized shelters. (Nov-15, NATO)

 

Pakistan military is planning to have 160 teams ready to move into hard to reach areas to go village-to-village to make Òwarm roomÓ shelters in areas above 5,000 feet high. (Nov-14, DFID)

 

Pakistan military reports 71 Òtent villagesÓ housing some 53,276 people throughout the affected area. (Nov-14, DFID)

 

Some 500,000 still reportedly without shelter. (Nov-8, IRIN)

 

About 392,177 tents have been delivered. 500,000 total required. (Nov-14, DFID)

 

UNOCHA reports some 10,000 currently living in organized camps. 18 camps established—7 around Mansehra, Balakot and Batagram, 8 around Muzaffarabad and 3 around Bagh. Total capacity for 225,000. (Nov-8, UNOCHA)

 

GOP will start handing out compensation payments of Rps 25,000 (US$418) for loss of houses. (Nov-5, UNOCHA)

 

Some 2.5 million have lost their homes. 2.2 million are in rural areas, 100,000 in semi-urban areas and 200,000 in urban areas. (Nov-7, DFID)

 

ICRC is now planning to assist at least 200,000 people, instead of 150,000 – half by air in Neelum Valley in remote villages, and other half by road in Jhelum Valley and Muzaffarabad. Will give tarpaulins and blankets first, then distribute two-month, instead of three-month food rations for winter. (Nov-4, ICRC)

 

Federal Relief Commissioner Khan said that GOP had established 58 tent villages which sheltered some 36,000 people. (Nov-2, BBC)

Infrastructure

UNDP says several factors played a part in greater difficulty of raising international aid for Pakistan earthquake, as opposed to the December 2004 tsunami disaster: the involvement of only one country (Pakistan), that the disaster occurred at the end of the fiscal year, and the number of other disasters in 2005. (Nov-16, DPA)

 

The Federal Educational Minister says the cost of rehabilitating the educational system in NWFP and PcK is at some US$500 million. Minister says 9,000 educational institutions in NWFP and 7,000 educational institutions in PcK were destroyed. (Nov-16, Frontier Post, Dawn)

 

The World Bank and the Asian Development Bank estimate that the quake damaged some 2,385 miles (3,837 kilometers) of roads; 2,366 km (1470 miles) in PcK and 1,471 km (914 miles) of roads in NWFP were damaged. At least 10,000 schools were destroyed or damaged. (Nov-8, Reuters) Of these, 7,197 were destroyed. Of these, 3,680 schools in PcK and 3,517 in NWFP were destroyed. (Nov-8, IHT, The Dawn)

 

Out of US$5.2 billion estimated for reconstruction needs, World Bank and ADB estimates about US$1.092 billion needed for relief, US$205 million for death/injury compensation, US$301 million for early recovery and US$97 million for the restoration of livelihoods. In addition, US$3.5 billion was estimated for the physical reconstruction. Pakistan will appeal for US$5.2 billion in November 19 donors conference. (Nov-15, Reuters, ADB)

 

Planning figures from OCHA say 70% of houses destroyed, 30% damaged. (Nov-1, OCHA)

 

USAID says almost 90 percent of schools destroyed. USAID working with UNICEF to restart schools. (Oct-27, USAID) UNICEF, quoting GOP estimates, said that 6,700 schools were destroyed in NWFP and another 1,300 destroyed in PcK. (Oct-31, AFP)

 

Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf has approved 2 billion Pakistani Rs (US$33.3 million) for reconstruction of homes, at a meeting of the Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority (ERRA). (Oct-28, AP)

 

In Nheelum Valley, almost 90-100% of buildings were destroyed. (Oct-27, UNOCHA) 90% of the structures in Bagh have totally collapsed, almost 100 percent of structures in Nasera district in Jhelum Valley have collapsed. (Oct-23, 25UNOCHA)

 

An Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority (ERRA) has been established to rebuild infrastructure. Lt. Gen Muhammad Zubair, engineer-in-chief of the Pakistani Army is chair. (Oct-17, Dawn)

Security

UNICEF says establishment of system to protect vulnerable groups, including women and elderly, remains key priority. Assessments ongoing in 39 out of 41 identified camps – more partners needed. (Nov-17, OCHA)

 

Reports that women are increasingly facing violence and harassment at camps. (Nov-16, IRIN)

 

UNICEF, together with the Ministry of Social Welfare, have begun registering children living in emergency settlements. UNOCHA reports at least 4,000 children have been registered thus far. (Nov-1, UNOCHA)

 

Following recent incident involving looting of relief items from CARE International truck, all agencies are encouraged to submit incident report information during logistics cluster meetings to identify patterns and notify authorities. (Nov-11, UNJLC)

 

India

 

 

 

Overview

 

The latest official death toll is 1,309 in Indian-controlled Kashmir (IcK). Officially, 6,622 people reportedly injured and 150,000 displaced (Oct-17, AFP). Worst-hit areas are around Tangdhar and Uri towns in Kupwara and Baramulla districts respectively, along the disputed Line of Control (LoC). Third worst-hit area is Poonch district. The governmentÕs main priority right now is provision of shelter through tents, repair of homes, reconstruction of homes and community shelters to last through the winter.

 

GovernmentÕs distribution of cash relief from the Natural Calamity Relief Fund (NCRF) began in Uri and Tangdhar on October 19. Relatives of each casualty received 100,000 Indian rupees (US$2,200), while 60,000 Indian rupees (US$1,333) are offered for the rebuilding of destroyed homes. (Oct-26, AFP) All disbursement completed on November 15. (Oct-26, AFP) Additional incentive for families that complete construction of temporary sheds from tin sheets and timber by or before the end of November. (Nov-10, PTI) Following the earthquake, the government announced a US$150 million aid package.

 

India has not asked for international assistance, and the presence of foreign aid agencies is restricted in the disputed region, which is also the site of a separatist militancy. The Indian Army, under Operation Imdad, has been carrying out bulk of relief and rehabilitation effort. Local state agencies, social, religious and political organizations, and NGOs also assisting.

 

As in northern Pakistan, aid workers struggle with the mountainous terrain, landslides and increasingly cold weather. (Oct-17, AFP) International and domestic aid agencies also have to contend with frequent security checks and roadblocks. (Oct-24, SC) Heavy snow reported in Sadna Pass, at 10,000 feet on the Sringar-Teethwal road – causing concerns for survivors in Tangdhar area. Survivors call more further winterization of tents. (Nov-14, AFP)

 

International and domestic media continue to report that some remote villages have received little or no aid, which the Indian government repeatedly denies. Residents in Tangdhar and Uri say relief not being fairly distributed. (Oct-31, Kashmir Times) Some villages do not have NGO presence and are completely dependent on the government for relief. (Oct-30, AFP) Villagers in Salamabad, Uri constructing tin sheds, which they plan to stay in until March next year. However, they say tin structures are cold during the night. Villagers also say that large community centers cannot be built by the government because of the terrain, although smaller centers may be more feasible - no work has been begun yet. (Nov-9, Kashmir Times) A district official and five Revenue Department officials have been suspended in connection with relief fraud in Uri, under the instructions of new IcK Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad. The government set up a grievances department, where people can lodge complaints on relief distribution. (Nov-8, Daily Excelsior)

 

Shelter remains the top relief priority. Aside from food and water, fuel to cook food and burn firewood is also an important relief item. (Oct-26, AFP) First priority for aid workers is providing shelter worst-hit areas around Tangdhar, and upper areas of Kupwara and Baramulla that are going to be snowbound by end of November. Second are families that will remain accessible, despite heavy snow; third are those whose homes are partially damaged. (Oct-31, SEEDS)

 

Although at least 35,000 tents are needed in the region, only about 12,000 tents and 200,000 blankets have been distributed by the Indian government. (Oct-26, MHA) Up to 1 million people and their livestock (a valuable commodity) need winter housing. Many living in makeshift tent cities. (Oct-23, ADEPT) ADEPT says efforts must focus on huge logistical problem of distributing tents and setting them up, as it is too late to procure more tents before winter - 80% of villages still lack proper shelter. (Nov-2, ADEPT) GOI plans to build prefabricated, winterized community centers where people can shelter at night and work outside during the day to rebuild their homes. Survivors have appealed for kangris and bokharis, traditional heaters used in the region that use very little fuel.

 

Emmanuel Hospital Association (EHA) in Uri, reports that people with major medical needs are still being found in remote areas. The NGO found cases of pneumonia and respiratory disease in one remote village. (Nov-14, EHA) CMC Ludhiana, partner of Academy for Disaster Management Education Planning and Training (ADEPT) working in Baramulla, reports following health issues: Respiratory illnesses, especially among children, care and dressing of wounds to prevent infection, malnutrition that complicates recovery, and poor personal hygiene that complicates exposure. Selected villagers are being trained as Emergency Community health Attendants. To overcome logistics of supplying medicine, team of professional mountaineers will be hired to carry medical and food supplies to snowbound villages during the winter. Also reports that women health workers are required to treat women due to culture. (Nov-16, ADEPT)

 

Pakistan and India on October 29 made an unprecedented agreement to open the disputed Line of Control (LoC) to facilitate relief. All crossing points are now opened at Nauser-Teethwal, Chakothi-Uri, Hajipur-Uri, Rawalakot-Poonch and Tattapni-Mendhar. The first crossing opened on November 7 at Rawalakot-Poonch. Third border crossing on Nauser-Teethwal opened on November 12. Fourth border crossing at Tattapani-Mendhar area was opened on November 14. (Nov-14, The News, AFP) Fifth border crossing at Hajipur-Uri opened today. (Nov-16, BBC) Although Pakistan said it wants all crossing points on the LoC to remain open on all days of the week, it has accepted Indian proposal to open one crossing point per week up to December 12, 2005. The two sides have exchanged lists of people for approval to cross. Pakistan has already approved IndiaÕs list of 83 people, but India has yet to approve 120 people from PcK. (Nov-16, Reuters) Civilians will be allowed to cross on November 24. (Nov-16, BBC) The Pakistani Foreign Ministry said that the first crossing of people will be at Chakothi-Uri. (Nov-16, Reuters) World Food Program (WFP) urged opening of more roads across the LoC in order to facilitate relief operations for thousands of victims in quake-hit PcK. There are some areas in PcK that are cut off from relief hubs and are more easily accessible from IcK, such as Neelum Valley. (Nov-8, Reuters) Residents in PcK reportedly call for opening of LoC in Jammu region as well. (Nov-16, Daily Excelsior)

International Response

 

India has not asked for international assistance.

 

Sector Status

 

Sector Status

Affected Population

150,000 people displaced (Oct-13, AFP), about 90 percent of them remain homeless (Oct-17, AFP)

 

Caritas India and local partners plan to help over 5,000 children in educational and recreational activities for psycho-social healing. (Oct-25, Caritas)

 

There are 71 widows and 154 children that have lost at least one parent. All 50 widows in Uri and 21 widows in Tangdhar have been given 10,000 Indian Rs (US$220.00) each. (Oct-26, MHA).

 

India-based Academy for Disaster Management Education Planning and Training (ADEPT) says 70% of villages reportedly have no road access and can only be reached by steep mountain trails. (Nov-2, ADEPT)

 

An NGO coordination meeting in New Delhi on October 21 determined an estimated 60,000 families are homeless, although no numbers can be confirmed. (Oct-31, SEEDS)

 

Coordination

ATHROT, a relief action program for IcK-based NGO, has been set up by a number of independent voluntary organizations, such as the Jammu and Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society, Doctors Offering Care and Kashmir Times Publications, to coordinate the efforts of private organizations. ATHROT opening centers in Uri, Salamabad, Karnah, Tangdhar, Teetwal, Keran and Machhil for relief distribution. (Oct-24, Kashmir Times)

 

State and federal government on October 17 agreed on a three-pronged rehabilitation strategy: Financial assistance, short-term construction of community shelters and long-term construction of quake-resistant infrastructure. (Oct-17, BBC News)

 

State Cabinet appointed five government officers to coordinate relief and reconstruction: BA Runiyal, Relief Commissioner, will be in charge in Uri; Sharief-ud-Din – Srinagar; GM Rather - Tangdhar; Jeet Lal Gupta – Poonch; K Mohinder Singh - relief Commissioner (migrants) in Jammu. (Oct-31, Kashmir Times)

 

Action by Churches Together (ACT) member, ChurchÕs Auxiliary for Social Action (CASA), undertaking initial relief operations to assist 10,000 affected families through four local partners: Al-Bashir, CNI Hospital/Church, Hindustani Convent Church (HCC) and COVA network. (Oct-12, ACT)

 

Save the Children has established base camps in Tangdhar (Kupwara) and Uri (Baramullah), reducing difficulties caused by bad weather and frequent security checks at roadblocks. (Oct-25, SC)

 

Caritas Internationalis has launched an appeal for over US$5.5 million to assist local partner, Caritas India. Caritas India, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), and the Catholic Social Service Society (CSSS) of the Jammu and Kashmir Diocese. CRS and Caritas India have set up a field office in Baramulla. Development and Peace funding Caritas India projects to provide relief for 4,000 families in 12 villages. Emergency phase to last until March 2006. Longer-term phase to last until November 2006. (Nov-10, Development and Peace)

 

Cultural Renewal of Kashmir Student Youth (CROKSY) distributed relief materials to residents of villages in Baramulla district, including 300 tents. (Nov-9, Kashmir Times) NGO intends to adopt two hamlets of badly affected areas in Uri for development. (Nov-10, Kashmir Times)

 

EFICOR has sent teams into several villages in Uri to distribute shelter items, including tents and CGI sheets – NGO had to check with army checkpost before 6 p.m. Foreign donors include Tearfund. (Nov-11, EFICOR)

 

Logistics

No New Information

Food

IcK Minister for Animal and Husbandry Taj Mohi-ud-Din has directed his ministry to assess livestock losses in quake-affected areas in the state. He also ordered the deployment of 12 veterinarians and 4 technical officers to different areas. (Nov-10, PTI)

 

WHO assessment team has recommended food supplies for six months for affected whose food supplies have been wiped out. (Nov-3, WHO)

Water and Sanitation

ADEPT reports that many villages need proper training in personal and public hygiene and sanitation, which is leading to increased health problems. (Nov-2, ADEPT)

 

Emmanuel Hospital Association (EHA) conducted wat/san assessments in two villages allocated to them by the government. (Oct-28, EHA)

Public Health/Medical

Although no threats of disease, epidemic control units established at Uri and Tanghdar by the health services department. (Oct-24, PTI) The Directorate General of Health Services MOH&FW is coordinating medical relief and has deployed a 30-member medical response team. (Nov-03, WHO)

 

Following assessment, WHO team recommends the strengthening of disease surveillance, completion of injury survey, intensified measles vaccination and vitamin A administration, psycho-social counseling and disaster preparedness planning. Provided technical and material support to Director Emergency Medical Response, MOH&FW. (Nov-3, WHO)

 

Academy for Disaster Management Education, Planning and Training (ADEPT) reports large portion of survivors suffering from respiratory infection due to exposure - expected to worsen through winter. Although Indian army provided first aid and transported seriously injured, logistical problems prevented follow up – making infections from injuries common. (Nov-2, ADEPT)

 

CMC Ludhiana, partner of ADEPT, set up base camp in Baramulla. (Oct-25, ADEPT) CMC Ludhiana is currently providing medical services in dozens of small and remote villages in Baramulla, Uri and Sopore through the deployment of medical teams. NGO reports that most villages had to trek for two to four hours to reach each village. A total of 8,075 patients have been treated. (Nov-16, ADEPT)

 

Caritas India and local partners hope to provide 4,000 families with regular basic health services by March 2006. (Oct-25, Caritas) CRS and partners managing three mobile medical teams and have treated more than 3,500 patients. (Nov-1, CRS)

 

Emmanuel Hospital Association (EHA) providing medical services in Uri, Baramulla. EHA is providing health & hygiene training, medical care and counseling to remote village in the districts through medical camps and mobile clinics – treated over 2,000 patients in 12 villages. Plans to distribute nutritional supplements and hygiene kits to affected. (Nov-14, EHA)

 

Health workers say there has been a lack of psychological treatment for quake victims, particularly from worst-hit Uri and Tangdhar areas. Other officials say quake has caused relapse in patients recovering from insurgency-related psychological stress. (Nov-7, Kashmir Times)

 

Shelter

GOI has identified 24 locations in Poonch district in which to construct pre-fabricated structures by Central Project Works Department (CPWD) and National Building Construction Corporation Limited (NBCCL). Structures would last for 15-20 years and serve as shelter in event of future disasters. Construction would take 10-15 days. (Nov-10, Kashmir Times)

GOI distributed 2,000 blankets and sweaters, donated by local NGO CROKSY among affected people and reviewed progress of rehabilitation and reconstruction in Uri. (Nov-10, PTI)

 

IcK Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed said houses with minor or partial damage would be given Indian Rs30,000 (US$670) each. Additional monetary assistance of Indian Rs31,000 (US$ 690) per family given for construction of temporary tin and timber shelters before onset of winter. Jammu and Kashmir Bank will also provide soft loans for home reconstruction. (Oct-27, PTI)

 

GOI has made available 135,000 cft (cubic square feet) timber in Uri and 125,000 cft at Tangdhar, with another 40,000 cft in storage in Sopore and Baramulla for rebuilding/repair of shelter. 273 mts of CGI sheets, and 20,000 bags of cements also made available. (Oct-24, PTI) CGI sheets and timber intended for construction of temporary shelters measuring 150 square feet (14 sq meters). (Oct-27, PTI)

 

GoI plans at least 107 centers in Uri and Tangdar areas in Baramulla and Kupwara districts respectively, which would be constructed through mid-November (Oct-21, Kashmir Times). Each center will accommodate 100 to 200 people, and later converted into schools or health care centers. (Oct-17, ADEPT) IcK government is considering relocation of about 900 homeless families, comprising 6,600 people, from seven villages in Tangdhar sector. (Nov-2, PTI)

 

ADEPT plans to provide shelter items for affected from base camp in Baramulla. (Oct-25, ADEPT)

 

Caritas providing 3,000 families with emergency tented shelter in Uri. It is hoped that 2,000 families will build transitional homes with adequate sanitation facilities through material and cash-for-work incentives by March 2006. (Oct-25, Caritas)

 

Sustainable Environmental and Ecological Development Society (SEEDS) is working with government and other NGOs to establish field workshops to help families construct their own shelters. (Nov-2, SEEDS) Although NGOs are using different approaches for shelter provision, SEEDS is currently using a 10-point guide, including determining location, guarding against companies attempting to sell construction materials and improvising shelter materials. (Oct-31, SEEDS)

 

Oxfam has supported over 5,000 people with blankets and plastic sheeting – plans to support 20,000 people in total. Investigating alternative shelter options for both low and high-altitude areas. (Nov-3, Oxfam)

 

Indo Global Social Service Society (IGSSS) has distributed shelter items in collaboration with German Agro Aid (GAA) and Miserior, including CGI sheets and construction materials to 400 families – plans to distribute more to another 500 families. (Nov-15, Kashmir Times)

 

ChurchÕs Auxiliary for Social Action (CASA) is providing assistance to 10,000 families by distributing blankets, clothing and other NFIs. Also distributing more than 500 family-sized tents. (Nov-15, CWS)

 

Infrastructure

GOI has released guidelines for earthquake-resistant reconstruction of buildings in affected areas. (Oct-19, GOI)

 

GOI has identified 18 hectares (44.5 acres) of land to rehabilitate villages in Navarunda, Gwalta, Urusa, Ishamsand Kamalkote villages in Uri area. (Nov-10, PTI)

 

According to the government, 42,750 homes have been destroyed and another 73,450 damaged. (Oct-23, ADEPT)

 

Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI) team from the Indian Institute of Technology in Kanpur, India, is conducting surveys in IcK. Their findings can be accessed at http://www.eeri.org (Nov-3, EERI)

 

Ministry for Housing and Urban Development says rehabilitation in Uri and Tangdhar, where some areas experienced 100 percent damage, will take a year. Rehabilitation in Poonch estimated to take two months. (Oct-26, Kashmir Times)

 

Security