Threat Of Floods And Landslides In Tajikistan

Threat Of Floods And Landslides In Tajikistan Prompts Un Humanitarian Appeal

New York, Apr 17 2008 4:00PM

The United Nations’ humanitarian wing is urgently appealing for $1.4 million so that it can buy and pre-position emergency water, sanitation and cooking items for up to 1,500 households in Tajikistan, which faces the threat of floods and landslides after a severe winter across much of Central Asia.

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) says the likelihood of floods and landslides in upcoming weeks remains high following weeks of heavy snow and intense rains.

OCHA is also reporting that Tajikistan could be hit by a locust infestation over more than 150,000 hectares of land because a combination of favourable weather conditions and incomplete spraying last year has led to a larger than normal amount of locusts’ eggs developing to adult stage.

“The pest is developing quicker and earlier than usual and action is extremely time-sensitive,” according to a situation report issued by OCHA yesterday.

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is calling for $500,000 to cover the cost of pesticides and equipment, warning that unless those funds are received within the next week, it may not be able to avert a major outbreak.

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