CHF 138,467 has been allocated from the IFRC’s Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) to support the Red Crescent Society of Tajikistan in delivering immediate assistance to some 558 households (3,348 beneficiaries) in the forms of distributing non-food items and providing psychosocial support to these families. The National Society is planning to replenish the items that were already distributed.
Unearmarked funds to repay DREF are encouraged.

Summary: A 5.7 Richter scale earthquake struck Rasht valley, eastern part of Tajikistan on 13th May 2012 early in the morning at about 4:30 AM. The earthquake affected three districts of Nurobod, Rasht and Tavildara (at least 33 villages), killing 2 and affecting more than 2,531 people. According to the preliminary results, some 86 houses were destroyed and 276 damaged. A rock fall occurred immediately after the earthquake that has blocked and destroyed the highway that is connecting theeastern part of the country. Due to the road blockage and the problems with communication line for a number of days, some 114 families were completely cut off.
The detailed assessment is still in progress by the Governmental Emergency Commission and the damage and need information is still subject to change. On 16th May, Rapid Emergency Assessment and Coordination Team’s (REACT1) Rapid Response Team was deployed to conduct sectoral assessment of humanitarian needs. The preliminary report received from the teams was shared with all the stakeholders on 18th May.