Islamabad– The United Nations issued a flash appeal on Tueday for $160 million to help Pakistan cope with catastrophic floods that have killed more than 1,100 people, destroyed infrastructure and crops, and affected 33 million people, Reuters reported.
Early estimates put the damage from the floods at more than $10 billion, the government has said. Torrential rain has triggered flash floods that have crashed down from northern mountains, destroying buildings and bridges, and washing away roads and crops.
Huge volumes of water are pouring into the Indus river, which flows down the middle of the country from its northern peaks to southern plains, bringing flooding along its length.
U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres said the $160 million he hoped to raise with the appeal would provide 5.2 million people with food, water, sanitation, emergency education and health support.
Pakistan estimates the floods have affected more than 33 million people, or more than 15% of its 220 million population.
Guterres appealed for a speedy response to Pakistan’s request to the international community for help.
Source: Saudi Press Agency