CANBERRA , NOVEMBER 8, 2005 – PAFA held a vigil on the one-month anniversary of the South Asia Earthquake.  More than 200 grieved for those who have lost their lives, provided hope for those who survived but are living in deplorable conditions, and highlighted to the world the urgent need for more humanitarian relief as the harsh Himalayan winter approaches.  

Minister John Hargreaves, Minister for Disability, Housing and Community Services, represented Chief Minister ACT.

His Excellency High Commissioner of Pakistan Mr. Babar Malik and Red Cross ACT Executive director Ian Rentsch were also attended the vigil.

Unlike recent natural disasters where immediate relief is completed within days or weeks, that has not been the case with the South Asia Quake. Immediate relief is still desperately needed to save lives.  One month after the devastating earthquake, tens of thousands of injured and survivors still have not received medical care for open wounds and fractures, food or shelter.

South Asia Quake Statistics:

o        The 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck Pakistan and India on October 8, 2005.

o        Over 73,000 deaths have officially been reported as well as 69,000 injuries.
o        Over 2.5 million survivors are without homes.
o        Of the 240 helicopters needed, fewer than 100 helicopters are operating.
o        Nations of the world have pledged $131 million, less than 25% of the $550 million needed according to United Nations                
               estimates for the first six months of assistance alone.
o        Winterised tents and bedding are urgently needed as the Himalayan winter swiftly approaches. Only 315,647 tents of the
               500,000 needed have been distributed.
o        Up to 30 per cent of affected villages have yet to be reached, which translates into some 200,000 people that have still not
               received any assistance at all.
o        To date, the Australians (government + Corporate + Australian public) have committed $23 million in humanitarian assistance –
               compared to $361 million for Tsunami assistance (Figures from The Australian Council for International Development ACFID).
o        The average temperature in the region one month after the quake is 2 degrees Celsius and falling compared to 29 degrees Celsius and stable in the Tsunami area.

O    it’s feared in next two weeks temperature will fall up to -33 degrees Celsius in elevated regions of Himalaya with 15 feet deep snow which will stop any helicopter flights and the up to 500, 000 stranded people will perish.