Over 500 people were killed and more than 500,000 evacuated as devastating floods hit the Kashimir region last month. But health experts are warning a crisis could be looming of an outbreak of serious diseases.
Kashmir has been hit by the worst floods in 50 years and has left bloated animal carcasses floating in stagnant water. Out breaks of severe diarrhea, skin allergies and fungus surfaced within days and aid workers said they were worried the stagnant water would create conditions for more serious diseases.
Dr Swati Jha with the aid group AmeriCares said “The chances of cholera, jaundice and leptospirosis spreading are high,” adding the urgent need for clean water.
In Srinagar, the summer capital of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, critical care specialist Dr Javaid Naqishbandi said: “There are pretty high chances of waterborne disease and disease due to overcrowding.” He urged the government to send vaccines and avoid cramming people into shelters.
The heavy rains which lasted a week caused floods on both sides of the de facto border. On the Indian side of Kashmir more than 200 people were killed and another 275,000 evacuated. Whilst Pakistani controlled Kashmir recorded figures of at least 328 killed and 276,600 evacuated, with floods hitting more than 3000 villages extending into the Punjab region.
Around 1 million have also been left without basic services.
IMWS along with affiliated masjids and Rabetah Al Ulema (Batley) launched an emergency appeal to send aid to the hit region. With the generosity of local people the funds raised have been distributed via Tayyab Hospital Trust and Orphans in Need to meet emergency aid providing medical aid, food and shelter to the victims.
Chair of the IMWS charity sub-committee, Mahmood Patel, said “What happened in Kashmir of course upset us all and once again our community have contributed very generously.
“We always try to help where ever and whenever a need arises and the reaction from our community is always very positive.
“Along with our donations we must also continue to remember all those in difficulties and hardships around the world in our supplications.
“As we enjoy our Eid, we must not forget those who are struggling.”
