The massive flooding that hit Pakistan over 2 weeks ago is putting 3.5 million children at risk of major illnesses such as cholera and other water-borne diseases. Survivors have been forced to drink contaminated water because only about one-quarter of the aid needed has reached Pakistan. Over 6 million people, adults and children, are at risk. A fifth of the country is under water and thousands of towns and villages have been destroyed, along with infrastructure and crops. $459 million is needed to meet current problems. The US has brought in aid, in the form of food, clothing, shelter, and medical supplies, utilizing US Marine Corps helicopters and aircraft. The United States has pledged more than any other country, offering over $75 million in monetary assistance in addition to food and other supplies.
This disaster is the worst in Pakistan’s history. The United States has stepped up and is helping with the largest donation of any country in the world. There are many other rich nations and it is time for them to come forward and assist the poor, suffering people of Pakistan. This is truly a humanitarian disaster and an opportunity for others to follow the lead of the United States in helping the world’s needy.
Hussain, Zahid. “UN Warns Disease is Risk in Flood-Ravaged Country.” The Wall Street Journal. 17 Aug. 2010.
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