The Salvation Army is putting together plans for major reconstruction work in the earthquake-affected mountain areas of north-west Pakistan. Major Cedric Hills, The Salvation Army's International Emergency Services Coordinator, has just returned from visiting the area and reports, 'It was cold, wet and pretty miserable -- and that was only in the low-lying towns at the foot of the mountains. The weather was so bad that the mountain tracks were impassable and I was unable to get up into the mountains to meet with villagers. Around 150,000 people have been relocated from these communities into tent camps in Balakot and Manshera but many have chosen to remain and see out the winter.'
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Salvation Army relief teams distributed 1,700 tents, roofing iron and timber for 300 winterised shelters, sewing machines, blankets and school supplies. In partnership with the Pakistan military these were taken into the mountains and distributed to families determined to remain close to their family plots.
Major Hills continues, 'During my visit I was able to meet with key United Nations and government officials who are leading the effort to support the displaced families while looking at how to begin reconstruction. The Salvation Army will be playing a role in the reconstruction phase and assessments are being made to determine how we might assist.'
A reconstruction office has been established in Manshera and International Headquarters has despatched experienced personnel to assist the Pakistan Territory. Captain Mike McKee (IHQ Emergency Field Operations Officer) and experienced relief worker Mr Martyn Smith arrived in Manshera last week. They will work alongside officers from Pakistan to develop plans for a Salvation Army rehabilitation and reconstruction programme.
Captain McKee reports: 'The government is providing grants to each impacted family to help them rebuild their homes. The relief camps are due to close at the end of March and all families will leave to head for home. Of course, their homes are no longer standing and there is only a small time in which we can help these families prepare for their return. Communities are also much more than just homes -- so we are looking to see if we can help with rebuilding schools and community centres'.
To date, more than US$500,000 has been allocated to support the earthquake relief programme. Additional funds are needed to help with the next phase and donations to the South Asia Earthquake Fund are still being sought. Online donations can be made through the South Asia Earthquake Fund.