Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Asia - Millions homeless after natural disasters


Queues for noodles in one of the tent cities

The official death toll in China’s earthquake has risen to 41,353 according to Xinhua news. Several thousand remain trapped and missing which could take the number to more than 70,000. Meanwhile it has been announced that the town of Beichuan will be relocated when it is rebuilt. Nearly the entire town was destroyed in the Wenchuan earthquake and residents face an uncertain future as the clear up operation begins. Millions of people are sleeping in tents or temporary accommodation and there are continuing logistical problems in providing food, water and adequate sanitation.

Far worse problems exist on the ground in Myanmar which was devastated by Cyclone Nargis two weeks ago. The death toll is said to have exceeded 100,000 but the government say the toll stands at 70,000 dead. Aid from foreign aid groups has begun to flow into the country but it remains only a small amount of what is needed.

No comments: