Y Care International launches Afghanistan earthquake appeal

28 March 2002

Y Care International has launched an emergency appeal following the earthquake in northern Afghanistan.

More than 2,000 people are feared dead, and the final death toll is likely to be far higher.

Many thousands more have been left injured, and at least 20,000 people have lost their homes.

The earthquake flattened the market town of Nahrin, around 90 miles north of Kabul, and surrounding villages in Baghlan province. The area is remote and rural with limited infrastructure.

Christopher Beer, Director of Y Care International, said: “This area was already severely affected by drought, and the recent conflict. This recent disaster has made the plight of the people of the region worse than ever. The international community has a duty to help, and we urge people to give what they can.“

Y Care International is working with ACT International, which has several partner organisations in the area which it will be working with to supply food, tents, water equipment and medical supplies where they are most needed.

ACT and its partners are also sending thousands of quilts and a medical team to the affected area.