Development Enhancement & Effectiveness Partners - DEEP

On October 26,2015, an earthquake of the magnitude of 7.5 struck Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan Metrology department measured it 8.1 on Richter scale. The quake was 196 km deep and centered 82 km of Feyzabad in a remote area of Afghanistan in Hindu Kush mountain range. The worst affected areas in Pakistan are Malakand division and mostly KPK province. As per PDMA’s records, 225 deaths have been reported only in KPK. Districts with highest death tolls, injuries and misc. damages are Chitral, Peshawar, Bajaur, Shangla and Malakand Division.

The earthquake hit mostly the high mountain areas which are already far flung and houses are built poorly. The disaster has left thousands of people injured, deprived of their nears & dears and loss of property. Civic amenities such as electricity and telephones (land lines and cellular as well) were badly affected. Because of fear of more tremors people evacuated their homes even to spend the whole night in the open space. Women, elderly, disables and children who would need urgent help to survive in the cold and mountainous areas. While the trauma affects and psychological disorders may remain haunt them for the times beyond measures.

Needs

Rain and snowfall have started in the affected districts and shelter against winter weather is the most urgent need. According to latest Government statistics, over 94,600 houses are fully or partially damaged. Communities are requesting temporary shelter supplies and permanent reconstruction materials. This includes winterized tents, blankets, kitchen sets and warm clothing. According to rapid assessments by some NGOs involved in relief efforts, people who have lost their food stocks and livestock, will need sustained support to meet their food needs throughout the winter period. Plastic sheeting is required to protect relief supplies received by families from the rain and weather conditions.

DEEP initiatiing emergency response in these areas and welcomes support and collaborations.