Humanitarian aid package for flood victims arrives in Badghis Province

Release #2006-289

20 November 2006

KABUL, Afghanistan (20 November) – A large-scale relief mission for the people of Bala Murghab in Badghis Province in response to recent severe flooding is now underway.

ISAF, in support of the Afghan Ministry of Health and UNAMA, is preparing to deliver medical supplies, food and water.

One aid package of three truckloads has travelled from Qal-E-Naw PRT by land at an average rate of 1/2 kilometre per hour and has reached Bala Murghab.

A second humanitarian aid package was flown from Kabul International Airport to Meymaneh PRT on 19 November by C-160. From Meymaneh, some of the supplies have already been moved by road convoy to the flood-damaged area of Gormach and these supplies have now been distributed. Two CH53 helicopters are ready to transfer the remainder of the supplies currently in Meymaneh, once weather conditions allow.

"I am pleased although somewhat pleasantly surprised with the quick response by ISAF," said Ghulam Haider, the chief programme coordinator of the Afghan Ministry or Rural Rehabilitation and Development (MRRD).

The aid comes at a critical time with over 50 Afghans reported dead, 100 missing and 250 homes destroyed due to the flooding.

ISAF will continue to operate in support of UNAMA and GoA to ensure the distribution of supplies to those in need.