Islamabad: The United States on Thursday pledged an additional $30 million in aid to Pakistan to help those affected by devastating floods that have affected 33 million people and killed 1,700 or more since mid-June.
US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome made the announcement during a visit to Shikarpur district, Sindh, where he helped distribute emergency shelters, latrines and hygiene kits to people affected by the floods.
The ambassador announced “an additional $30 million in humanitarian assistance to support flood-affected populations,” according to a statement from the U.S. Embassy.
“This new funding brings total U.S. assistance to Pakistan for flood response, food security, disaster preparedness, and capacity-building efforts to $97 million this year,” he said. declared.
Blome also visited the village of Makhno where USG emergency shelter kits are being used as temporary accommodation by the flood-affected community. While there, he spoke with flood victims to learn more about the impact of the flood and understand their needs.
The new funding will expand efforts to meet immediate needs, increasing assistance to the most affected communities and allowing USAID to reach more than 4 million people.
With the additional funding, the U.S. government, through USAID, will provide lifesaving food, nutrition, and health assistance to alleviate increased food insecurity and malnutrition resulting from the impact of the floods, as well only to curb the rise of diseases resulting from stagnant floodwaters.
The new funding will also provide shelter supplies to help families rebuild as well as winterization kits to help families prepare for the approaching cold weather.
The United States is deeply saddened by the devastating loss of life and livelihoods across Pakistan. “We stand with the people of Pakistan at this difficult time,” the embassy said.
