The Danger From Pakistan’s Earthquake Is Not Over
http://www.mountains-wcpa.org/downloads/PakistanAlertBulletin2.htm
The Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) and CARE International warn against further risks from environmental hazards in Northern Pakistan
The worst earthquake in Pakistan’s history has killed an estimated 58,000 people, wounded another 77,000 and spread devastation over nearly 30,000 square kilometers, as well as leaving at least 3.5 million people homeless. Rescue and reconstruction efforts have been seriously complicated by the quake’s destruction of communications networks and roads.
The World Conservation Union, the Worldwide Fund for Nature (WWF) and CARE International warn now that many more people may die unless the aid organizations pay attention to the environmental hazards resulting from the quake. The imminent onset of brutal winter conditions makes getting shelter and supplies to isolated quake victims at high altitudes an urgent priority, but in the rush to beat the winter deadline, it is important not to forget the ongoing dangers resulting from the quake. These include Aftershocks, Landslides, Disease, Debris, and Deforestation.
Among the many groups that mobilized to send relief, The American Alpine Club (AAC) and international freight-forwarder DHL combined efforts to help victims in the most remote mountain areas affected. AAC members organized a campaign to collect and expedite over 12 tons of warm clothing, boots, tents, and sleeping bags to this region. These items were delivered via DHL services and distributed by AAC members who live and work in that region such as Greg Mortenson of the Central Asia Institute.
These sites provide updates on this effort and ways you can help:
http://www.iucn.org/places/pakistan/
http://www.ikat.org/Earthquake_update.html
Learn more about these issues in the following documents forwarded by Mountains Network Member Ms. Nikhat Sattar, Head of Emerging and Emergency Programmes of the Strategic Planning Team of IUCN Asia Programme in Karachi.
http://www.mountains-wcpa.org/alerts.htm
