October 3, 2007

Floods throughout Asia over the summer have disrupted the lives of more than 66 million - a number larger than the population of France. In Pakistan, more than 40,000 people remain displaced in camps and shelters. With the change of seasons, there is concern that colder weather will cause a surge in acute respiratory infections, particularly in children. At least 86,000 cases of malaria have been reported and 70,000 people are suffering from gastroenteritis - mostly from drinking contaminated water.

On the basis of two assessments carried out by CWS-Pakistan, one of the critical needs that emerged was a clean drinking water source. Use of contaminated water and lack of hygiene awareness is increasing bacterial infections and risking lives. There is no source of safe drinking water in these villages; women have to go to far off places to fetch water.

CWS RESPONSE

CWS-Pakistan, a member of the Action by Churches Together (ACT) alliance, is rehabilitating drinking water sources in Thatta District and Sindh Province. In Thatta, most communities live in abject poverty with no sustainable means of livelihood. The floods have taken away shelters and what meager belongings they owned. Residents cannot afford to overcome their financial losses independently.

CWS-Pakistan's implementing partner is Strengthening Participatory Organisation (SPO), which is networking with local community based organizations (CBO). The project will supply 150 to 200 hand pumps for installation in affected villages in Thatta. Additonally, 1,200 jerry cans will be provided for storing clean water, 20 health and hygiene awareness sessions will also be conducted in the villages of Kharo Chann and Keti Bandar. Assistance to the flood survivors may be expanded depending on further funding pledges.

CWS also trained community members on how to operate the pumps, the installation process and construction of a platform and drainage. Drilling work has been completed in two villages and a 40 feet pipe has been installed. A demonstration of the platform construction design was done in front of the trainees, and they were also shown how to chlorinate wells. A professional mason will be needed to complete construction of some facilities.

In addition to safe drinking water, survivors need assistance with house reconstruction, a teacher for the village school, job opportunities, boats for fishermen and a proper drainage system.

To date, CWS has received $51,000 in support from US member denominations and $146,360 from other ACT alliance members in support of this effort. Further contributions to this appeal are urgently needed.

Contributions to support this emergency appeal may be sent to your denomination or to Church World Service, P.O. Box 968, Elkhart, IN, 46515. Contributions may also be made by credit card online, or by calling: (800) 297-1516, ext. 222.

Media Contact: Lesley Crosson, CWS/New York, 212-870-2676; lcrosson@churchworldservice.org Jan Dragin, 781-925-1526; jdragin@gis.net