The United Nations (UN) will launch a Flash Appeal on January 8, 2004, for victims of the earthquake that struck Bam on December 26, 2003. The appeal will address relief, recovery and early rehabilitation needs for the next three months.
The appeal will also prepare the ground for longer-term rehabilitation and development. Assessments of needs are currently ongoing, in collaboration with the Government of Iran and the Iranian Red Crescent.
The humanitarian response to the earthquake in Bam, Iran, is shifting from search and rescue, emergency medical intervention and evacuation, to relief assistance and determination of short and medium term needs. More than 10 search and rescue teams had left the area, while medical teams are arriving.
At least 1,400 relief flights have landed since December 26. Most immediate needs are being addressed, with shelter and sanitation the highest current priorities. — (menareport.com)
© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
