Oxfam begins Pakistan relief

Oxfam has launched an emergency response for the victims of the worst floods in Pakistan in 35 years and is calling for New Zealanders to help.

More than 1100 people have been killed and 1.5 million-plus affected by monsoon rains, flash floods and landslides in the northwest province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and at least another 47 have died in Pakistani-administered Kashmir, officials said.

More than 3700 homes have been swept away in the floods, and the number of people made homeless is rising and more monsoon rains were expected.

Oxfam's country programme manager, Iftikhar Khalid, visited the worst hit district in the province of Punjab.

"This flood is of an overwhelming size and its impact is only slowly emerging. The water has swept away everything. Families are desperate about the loss of their loved ones, their belongings and their livelihoods.

"Water sources and crops are destroyed. People are in need of food, clean drinking water, shelter and toilets to avoid a public health crisis," Mr Khalid said.

Hundreds of families were displaced and there were reports of towns being completely submerged with water touching the roofs of shops.

Oxfam, with the help of its partner organisations, had identified the 13 worst-affected districts and is providing emergency relief services.

Mr Khalid said Oxfam would also be providing water and sanitation facilities and livelihood services to 30,000 households throughout the 13 districts over the next three months.

New Zealanders wanting to help Oxfam's response to the crisis can call 0800 400 666 or donate online at www.oxfam.org.nz.

- NZPA