Christian Aid funding emergency relief after deadly earthquakes in Pakistan

Pakistani villagers look for belongings amid the rubble of their destroyed homes following an earthquake in the remote district of Awaran, Baluchistan province, Pakistan, Wednesday, September 25, 2013 (AP)

Christian Aid has sent funds to its partner relief agency in Pakistan after two deadly earthquakes hit the south-west of the country in the past week.

At least 400 people were killed when a 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck last Tuesday in Balochistan. A second earthquake followed on Saturday, killing dozens more.

An estimated 300,000 people have been affected across the six districts of Arawan, Kech, Gwadar, Panjgur, Chaghai and Khuzdar, but the death toll is expected to rise as there are fears that people are still trapped under the rubble.

The area is extremely underdeveloped, with most villages having no electricity or communications. Most of the roads have been destroyed by the earthquakes, hampering the delivery of aid.

Christian Aid partner Muslim Hands is using the funds to distribute food, medical kits and tents among 4,500 earthquake survivors.

Neil Garvie, Christian Aid's Emergency Programme Manager said, "There is a desperate need for food and shelter.

"Poor security, prolonged conflict in the area and lack of infrastructure makes it almost impossible to reach the survivors with much needed aid.

"But through our partner Muslim Hands, who has worked in the region for some time, we will be able to reach thousands with help."

The lack of investment in housing in the area means that many homes and buildings were unable to withstand the quakes.

An estimated 90 per cent of housing in Arawan District alone is believed to have been destroyed.

Long-term help for survivors will include building stronger houses that are more resistant to disaster.

Irfan Khan, Muslim Hands Programme Manager, said: "This is one of the worst disasters to have struck Balochistan in recent times. The problems such disasters leave behind are complex and need interventions at many levels.

"The immediate need is to help those who are stuck in remote and far-flung areas. But also, Muslim Hands is looking into building stronger houses for these communities for the future. "

News
Reflections on turning 75
Reflections on turning 75

Jewish academic and Hebrew scholar Irene Lancaster shares her reflections and wisdom of the years as she turns 75.

Which type of tree did Zacchaeus actually climb?
Which type of tree did Zacchaeus actually climb?

20 April is the feast day of Zacchaeus of Jericho. We all know the account of Zacchaeus climbing a tree to see Jesus. However, it turns out not to have been a sycamore tree at all. This is the story …

Global Church leaders urge renewed focus on cities as key to spreading the Gospel
Global Church leaders urge renewed focus on cities as key to spreading the Gospel

The Lausanne Movement is urging Christians around the world to see cities as one of the most important frontiers for mission, as rapid urbanisation continues to reshape where and how people live.

Pro-lifers show Parliament harsh reality of abortion up to birth
Pro-lifers show Parliament harsh reality of abortion up to birth

Under the changes, a woman who terminates her pregnancy by herself after the 24-week limit will not face any legal sanctions.