$1 million needed for shelter in Tajikistan earthquake

(New York: 20 September 2006): The United Nations agencies, Tajik Red Crescent Society, and other humanitarian partners working in Tajikistan appealed yesterday for $1 million to cover the remaining urgent needs of the population affected by two earthquakes, which struck the southern district of Qumsangir on 29 July 2006.

The July earthquakes destroyed more than 1,000 houses and damaged more than 1,500, affecting some 21,000 people. While the Government initiated reconstruction efforts within days of the earthquakes, the construction of new houses has progressed slowly, leading to concern that half of the destroyed houses will not be rebuilt before winter sets in.

The appeal, therefore, calls for 500 winterized tents to house the affected population during Tajikistan's harsh winter, as well as material support for the reconstruction of 200 houses and seven schools damaged by the earthquakes.

The United Nations country team, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, and the wider international community have been effective in meeting urgent needs, particularly in the areas of health, water and sanitation, and education, through the response coordinated by the Rapid Emergency Assessment and Coordination Team (REACT).

Of the projects envisioned within the appeal, $600,000 is intended to provide shelter for vulnerable households in the form of winterized tents. Additionally, $200,000 is dedicated to school rehabilitation, $100,000 to support the reconstruction of some 200 houses, and $100,000 for non-food relief items including mattresses, blankets, kerosene stoves, and other household items. Participating in the appeal are the United Nation Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the non-governmental organization (NGO) Oxfam, as well as the Tajik Red Crescent Society. The bulk of the requested resources - 70 per cent - will be channelled through the national Red Crescent society.

For further information, please call: Stephanie Bunker, OCHA-New York, +1 917 367 5126, mobile +1 917 892 1679; Kristen Knutson, OCHA-New York, +1 917 367 9262; Elisabeth Byrs, OCHA-Geneva, +41 22 917 2653, mobile, +41 79 473 4570. OCHA press releases are available at http://ochaonline.un.org or www.reliefweb.int.