The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is distributing this week seven tons of rice for 10,000 people in Mrauk-U, in Rakhine, a statement from the organization reported on 6 July.
The ICRC is helping its partner, the Myanmar Red Cross Society, to assist communities affected by the floods in the state.
“The situation is serious. People from all communities have been affected and had to relocate to schools, monasteries and other places. Water resources such as ponds have been contaminated”, said Juerg Montani head of the ICRC in Myanmar. According to the authorities, 33,000 people have been affected. “Food, fresh water, clothing, hygiene products and water tablets are badly needed. Therefore, we have decided to step up our aid”, added M. Montani.
In Rakhine, the ICRC is present because of the violence that affects the population and helps vulnerable people from all communities. In coordination with the authorities and the Red Cross Movement partners, the ICRC concentrates its work where it has a strong presence, in Mrauk-U, Kyauktaw and Minbya.
The ICRC has sent additional staff to support volunteers of the Myanmar Red Cross. Apart from food distribution, the ICRC has also provided 3000 oral rehydration salts to Mrauk-U hospital. The institution has supported the cleaning up of the hospitals of Kyauktaw, Buthidaung, Minbya and is helping the hospitals with material and MRCS medical staff, drugs and transportation to mobile clinics in Mrauk-U, Kyauktaw and Minbya.
Emergency household items (blankets, mats, lamps, hygiene packs, and kitchen and shelter kits) are being distributed by MRCS volunteers and the ICRC is working to provide safe drinking water and to improve basic hygiene in Mrauk-U, Kyauktaw and Minbya. The ICRC is also donating tarpaulins to families in Sittwe and Buthidaung whose houses were destroyed.