Pakistan Earthquake survivors huddle in freezing cold, endure aftershocks
New Zealand aid agency Christian World Service is accepting donations for survivors of the Pakistan earthquake forced to
spend freezing nights in the open and fearing aftershocks.
The shallow 6.4 quake on Wednesday in Balochistan province killed at least 236, left over 4000 people injured and 50,000
homeless. Aid workers believe the number of dead, injured and homeless could rise as more bodies are dug out of the
rubble.
Christian World Service is accepting donations for the Pakistan/Afghanistan branch of Church World Service, which has so
far distributed 1000 tents, 4000 blankets and 4000 hygiene kits along with warm clothes and has distributed food
packages for at least 100 families.
Northwestern Balochistan was worst hit with seven to eight villages in the district of Ziarat levelled. Burials in mass
graves have taken place in the area.
The scale of the destruction is impeding relief work and preventing teams reaching affected areas.
Thousands are spending sub-zero nights in the open.
Shallow aftershocks are expected to last at least a week. On Wednesday evening, a 6.2 magnitude quake caused more damage
in already badly affected areas.
Church World Service says that as well as more winter tents, food, warm clothes, blankets and stoves, there is a need
for more burial shrouds. Church World Service has joined local government and national and international organisations
to plan relief work.
Donations can be made by phoning 0800 74 73 72 or at www.cws.org.nz
ENDS