UN promises disaster support

Islamabad: United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Pakistan Knut Ostby has expressed sorrow over deaths caused by heavy snow and rains in Balochistan and by avalanches in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

In a press release issued here on Thursday, Mr Ostby said, "I send my condolences to the people and government of Pakistan for the painful loss the nation has sustained over the last weekend where tens of children, men and women lost their lives due to the harsh weather conditions and avalanches."

"I commend the national rescue teams for a very well done job saving the lives of hundreds of people affected by the same conditions. I send my sincere wishes to the wounded for a swift and full recovery as well," he said.

The UN resident said he and his teams were in constant meeting and were coordinating with the authorities on the ground and the National Disaster Management Authority in Islamabad to find the best way forward to providing the people with the shelter and food they need to pass through this unprecedented snow fall.

"We are discussing with the authorities and donors the need to mobilize additional resources to support the humanitarian aid to those in need. We shall act tirelessly to ensure support is provided timely," he said.