Photo by Gospel For Asia

Lack of clean water puts flood survivors at risk in Pakistan

Pakistan's displaced flood victims say a lack of clean water and high temperatures are causing illnesses sweeping through relief camps with children most at risk, reports MNN.

Dr. K.P. Yohannan, president of Gospel for Asia, emphasized, "Clean water is a definite priority, and it is our joy to give out 'cups of water' in the name of Jesus."

To that end, GFA Compassion Services teams are providing clean drinking water. Among those affected are at least 1,000 Christians, including several GFA-supported missionaries and their congregations.

Overall, seventeen million Pakistanis have been affected, and the United Nations says only 64 percent of the funds required to meet the $458 million cost of the crisis have been found. Of those seventeen million, almost five million are still without shelter.

The combination of over-population in the camps, inadequate sanitation, and contaminated drinking water is deadly. Thousands are contracting waterborne diseases among the most vulnerable populations of women and children.

For those who are able to help in the relief, Yohannan said they view the floods as an opportunity rather than a setback: "Calamities and crisis and pain--regardless of country or culture--[are a] huge opportunity for us to demonstrate God's love for these people."

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TAGS: Pakistan flood victims Gospel for Asia Dr. K.P. Yohannan drinking water relief camps

[09/07/2010]

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