Pakistan Conflict
Hundreds of thousands of civilians in Pakistan are enduring extreme suffering and hardship due to ongoing hostilities in the North West Frontier Province (NWFP). Fighting between Pakistan’s armed forces and local insurgent groups has driven roughly 1.5 million people from their homes in search of safety. Those left behind lack access to food, water and sanitation, and health services.
Red Cross response:
The Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) are continuing to bring aid, including food and medical supplies, to those affected and in desperate need. Where access allows, they are also meeting the humanitarian needs of those who remain in the conflict zone.
The PRCS is running camps for internally displaced people (IDPs), ensuring those who have found refuge there will be able to live in dignified conditions. The camps are equipped with latrines, showers, water fountains and basic health units.
The ICRC's surgical hospital for people with weapon wounds in Peshawar, established less than a month ago, has admitted scores of patients from the Swat district since recent hostilities escalated and is now operating at full capacity.
Canadian Red Cross response:
The Canadian Red Cross has been working in Pakistan since 2003, when an earthquake left millions of survivors in urgent need. Today, the Canadian Red Cross is scaling up its activities to respond to the humanitarian needs of thousands affected by conflict.
In response to the urgent health needs in affected communities the Canadian Red Cross has deployed its mobile health team. In addition the Canadian Red Cross is providing emergency relief items including, hygiene kits, pedestal fans and supplying waste management kits.
In addition, the Canadian Red Cross is supporting the work of the PRCS in the management of IDP camps.
Canadian Red Cross aid workers are on standby should additional assistance be requested.
Canadians wishing to support the work of the Red Cross Movement in Pakistan may do so by contacting their local Red Cross.
