Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF)
allocated: N/A
This Information Bulletin is being
issued based on the needs described below reflecting the information available
at this time. Based on further updates and details from assessment reports,
or should the situation deteriorate, the Federation may consider international
support through an Appeal.
MAP - Tajikistan: Landslide - Location Map
The Situation
On 26 February 2003 at approximately 05:20 a.m., the hillside above the village of Ghorvodor in Khatlon province began to slide into the village. Its progress was slow enough that villagers closest to the landslide were able to escape with a small amount of personal possessions. Throughout 26 February the land continued to slide but slowed in its progress. No further movement in the mass of mud has been recorded since 27 February. Continued wet weather has led to concern that the landslide may continue its slow progress through the village.
A total of 181 people in 33 households representing approximately 56% of the population have been affected. Although there are no casualties, 11 households representing 12 families were completely destroyed and other 22 houses damaged. Numerous livestock have also been lost.
With the land slide stabilized, efforts have now turned to ensuring the security of the remaining homes in the village. Numerous volunteers are assisting residents in securing their households effects as well as in saving of building materials from the remaining homes. Those residents that have been forced from their homes are currently sheltered with either friends, relatives or in the local school.
The immediate needs of the effected families include household goods, clothing, shelter and food. A one time distribution of the household goods and clothing to the 12 families who were forced to rapidly evacuate from their homes is required and may be carried out by the Red Crescent Society of Tajikistan (RCST). Shelter needs are currently being met but tents may be needed when school is reactivated. This need will be confirmed including quantities in the near future. The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is providing a one time distribution of food to the 12 most affected families. Each family member receives a ration of 50 kg of wheat flour, 3.6 kg of oil and 4.8 kg of peas, children under 5 receive half of the above ration.
Government and Ministry of Emergency officials are in the process of making their assessment of the situation. Their initial plans include relocation of some villagers to an area south of Kurgan-Tube. Those wishing to remain in the present area will be given assistance to rebuild. Some cash restitution is expected as well as construction materials from the government.
The first disaster coordination meeting was held at 14:00 on 27 February at the coordination headquarters. It was attended by government officials, the RCST, and the Federation. A further meeting is scheduled for 28 February. The International Federation is in the process of contacting all international organization operating in the Kulyab area to solicit their involvement in the response.
Red Cross/Red Crescent Action
A combined Federation and RCST assessment team is on site to determine the needs of the affected families. The Disaster Management Delegate for Tajikistan arrived at the disaster site on 27 February and commenced liaison with the Ministry of Emergency and local government officials. He is also assisting the RCST in their response efforts.
The Red Crescent Society set up an emergency first aid post which has been in continuous operation since 15:00 on 26 February. The first aid post is being used both by villagers who are working on site. The RCST is in a process of distributing mattresses, pillows and used clothing to the 12 affected families. Further domestic needs are being evaluated for possible response. The needs of the affected people will be met from within local resources, with additional assistance from the National Society and WFP.
For a full description of the National Society profile, see www.ifrc.org
For further details please contact:
the Red Crescent Society of Tajikistan;
Tel: (7) (3772) 240374 Fax: (7) (3772) 245378; e-mail: rcstj@yahoo.com
Michaela Told; Federation Desk Officer, Phone 41 22 730 44 24; Fax 41 22
733 0395; email: michaela.told@ifrc.org
All International Federation Operations seek to adhere to the Code of Conduct and are committed to the Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Response (SPHERE Project) in delivering assistance to the most vulnerable.
For support to or for further information concerning Federation operations in this or other countries, please access the Federation website at http://www.ifrc.org
For longer-term programmes, please
refer to the Federation's Annual Appeal.
John Horekens
Director
Division of External Relations
Lynette Lowndes
Head
Europe Department