Bangladesh to receive 200 million dollars aid worldwide

Dhaka, Nov 22 (UNI) Donor countries and agencies have so far pledged over 200 million US dollars assistance to help cyclone-affected people in Bangladesh and meet requirements rising in the aftermath of cyclone 'Sidr'.

The pledge was made at a meeting between the donors representatives and Food and Disaster Management Secretary Dr Mohammad Ayub Mia at his office today.

The death toll in the November 15 cyclone that smashed into Bangladesh's south and southwestern coast climbed up to 2,996 till today morning. Several thousand people in the country's coastal districts are still missing.

Besides, more than 70,00,000 people were rendered homless and standing crops damaged by the catastrophic cyclone.

Dr Mia told reporters that the government had so far received assurance of foreign assistance of over 200 million dollars for the cyclone-affected people. He said the assistance is likely to increase in coming days.

Japan committed to over ten million US dollars to assist Bangladesh in three phases. Japan has already provided tents, blankets and clothing for the cyclone-affected areas in the first phase.

In the second phase, it will provide food assistance. As part of the third phase, Japan will work with the cyclone rehabilitation programme.

India has pledged to give 22 million US dollars including 40,000 metric tons of rice, 10,000 metric tons of wheat, 1,000 metric tons of milk powder, 10,000 blankets and 400 tents.

Denmark assured five million Euro, while an aircraft from Italy with relief materials will arrive here today or tomorrow.

European Commission has pledged five million URO while SIDA of Canada three million US dollars.

Save the Children committed to enhance its relief and rehabilitation programmes in affected areas.

Dr Mia informed that the donor countries and agencies had made further commitments to provide short and long term assistance for the cyclone-hit people.

The Secretary said they would hold further talks with the donors to assess what steps are to be taken next.

UNI