20 million people homeless in Pak floods, says Gilani

Islamabad, Aug 15(ANI): Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has estimated that 20 million people are now homeless in the country following the worst floods in its history.

Addressing the nation on Independence Day, the Prime Minister however assured that all possible resources would be utilized for the rehabilitation of the affected people.

"The nation will confront the challenges as it did at time of partition, with the blessings of Almighty Allah. This time too we shall succeed," The Daily Times quoted Gilani, as saying.

He said that the deluge had killed 1,384 people, injured 1,630 and according to initial estimates damaged over 700,000 homes.

He also informed that the government was able to rescue over 400,000 stranded people.

Apart from the loss of lives, the unprecedented catastrophe has also destroyed crops, washed away bridges, roads, communication and energy networks, causing losses running into billions of dollars.

Addressing the international community, Gilani said that Pakistan's economy had already suffered colossal losses due to the relentless war against terrorism.

"I appeal to the world community to extend a helping hand," he said.

Meanwhile, fresh flood waves have swelled the River Indus, threatening nearby cities, towns and villages in Sindh province.

The Indus is already over 15 miles wide at some points - 25 times wider than during normal monsoon seasons.

According to reports, authorities are evacuating and warning people in Jacobabad, Hyderabad, Thatta, Ghotki, Larkana and other areas. (ANI)