DUSHANBE, February 21, Asia-Plus — The European Commission has allocated 750.000 euros for people suffering from a severe cold spell in Tajikistan.
According to the media and infroamtion department within the Delegation of the European Commission to Tajikistan, funded actions would include the supply of non-food items, water and sanitation actions and food security.
The country is currently experiencing dire climatic conditions which are having a dramatic impact on the daily life of the population. Funds will be channeled through the European Commission Humanitarian Aid department (ECHO) under the responsibility of Louis Michel, European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid.
“We hope that our assistance will help citizens of Tajikistan to go through the difficulties. We also stand ready to provide our further assistance and advice to help to stabilize energy situation in the country”, said Head of EC Delegation, Mr. Adriaan van der Meer.
In addition to the severe cold, Tajikistan is confronted by a serious energy deficit. There is an increasing demand for electricity, the major source for heating. In addition, in rural areas the search for alternative sources of energy has resulted in increasing tree cutting. These weather conditions have also damaged water supply systems and have destroyed crops, seeds and livestock. The preliminary assessment of needs indicates that around 2 million people are affected by this crisis.
The Commission has decided this humanitarian aid package to provide assistance to the most vulnerable people in rural and urban areas. The funds will supply non-food items, water and sanitation actions, food security operations including provision of seeds and livestock.
