Pakistan relief effort faces massive challenges

A team of British Red Cross logistics specialists has arrived in Pakistan to help co-ordinate the arrival of aid so it can be delivered to those most in need.

As floodwaters further inundate the low-lying southern provinces of the Punjab and Sindh, and an increasing number of people require assistance, the team of four will be working to speed up the delivery of aid into the worst-hit areas.

Flying out last night, the team is heading to the devastated province of Sindh in southern Pakistan. Logistics specialists from other Red Cross National Societies have been in the country since soon after the disaster began.

 “There are massive logistical challenges in Pakistan which are holding us back from reaching all the people in need. At the moment there are relief items ready to go but the challenge is getting them to places where roads, rail and all normal transport have been wiped out,” said Richard North, logistics manager at the British Red Cross.

“The British Red Cross team will be helping establish routes to get aid to flood victims as quickly as possible, in any way we can. We know from previous disasters that this often means using trucks, boats and even helicopters. But this is only half the battle. Once those routes in are up and running, it is vital aid continues to arrive in country in sufficient quantities to meet the vast needs.” 

Team member Kenny Hamilton said: “Having seen the devastation of Pakistan on the news, and knowing that there are still people who haven’t been reached, there is a huge role for logistics teams on the ground. As soon as we arrive we will be doing everything we can to get aid to those in need as quickly as possible.”

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