One-Fifth of Pakistan Underwater: UN

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http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/6507849-onefifth-of-pakistan-underwater-un

Sohbatpur : Pakistan | Aug 12, 2010

The United Nations estimates that up to one-fifth of Pakistan is currently underwater. This year's monsoon season caused the worst floods in the country’s history. U.N. officials say the crisis is far from over, warning that dams in Sindh province could fail in the coming days. Monsoon season is also forecast to last several more weeks.

Flood water has devastated and washed away hundreds of villages. The death toll has surpassed 1500 and the floods have affected over 3.5 million people across Pakistan, according to Helping Hand for Relief and Development's (HHRD) emergency response team. Thousands of flood victims are also facing a growing threat from waterborne diseases. snip

"People are showing up at the clinic parched and hungry. They've walked through rain and mud with clothing caked to their bodies, carrying their children for hours. They're suffering from ailments such as diarrhea and acute respiratory infections, which can become life-threatening unless treated. The situation is desperate," said Dr. Sheraz Iqbal, a physician with World Vision in Pakistan.