Ban saddened by loss of life in landslide

KABUL (Pajhwok): The United Nations Secretary-General is deeply saddened by the loss of life as a result of the landslide in northeastern Badakhshan province, a statement said on Monday.

Ban Ki-moon extended his sincere condolences to the people and government of Afghanistan, especially those who have lost family members, friends, homes and livelihoods in the disaster.
“United Nations agencies and humanitarian partners are supporting the government of Afghanistan in providing assistance to those who have been displaced and stand ready to coordinate efforts to increase the resilience of communities at risk of natural disasters,” it said.

The government declared on Sunday a national day of mourning and ordered flags to fly at half-mast as it dispatched relief supplies to the survivors.
At least 700 families have been displaced in the disaster, including those in neighbouring areas who were evacuated as a precautionary measure because the ground remained unstable after heavy rains, officials said.
More than 2000 people believed died after hundreds of homes were buried in the mudslide.

Humanitarian organisations have started providing healthcare to the survivors, and local officials are working to arrange support for orphans.
Businessmen and political leaders also donated cash to the village fund. The UN Office for the Coordinator of Humanitarian Affairs said about 1,000 families were affected and 300 houses destroyed.
pr/ma

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