Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Khushpur (Agenzia Fides) – The live report continues from the two Camillian missionaries sent by Camillian Task Force for an initial survey of the needs of Pakistani flood victims.
The missionaries told Fides that they have visited a village named Khushpur, in Faisalabad, also known as "the Rome of Pakistan" because of the many religious houses. 1300 families live there, including some of the Muslim faith. "This village has not been spared the heavy rains. Over one thousand homes were damaged by torrential rains, some completely destroyed. People have found shelter under makeshift tents, very few have real tents. Some live in shacks made of straw. Many people have nothing to eat, especially older women, unmarried or widows. There are also many people with disabilities. Caritas Faisalabad, other Church organizations, and other NGOs are trying to bring them relief, but it is often insufficient. Drinking water is contaminated. People go long distances in search of drinking water. The few hand pumps cannot meet the needs of the multitude. This is why many are contaminated with infected water. Hepatitis B and C are on the rise, as well as tuberculosis. There are cases of malaria, gastroenteritis, fever, and other forms of disease. Some health camps have been set up, but unfortunately they are also insufficient. The village is located on land where the water level is five feet below the standing surface. The rains have destroyed crops and fodder for the animals, many of whom are sick and in need of vaccinations. In addition, the corn planting season is approaching, but the fields are still flooded. They need seeds, fertilizer, and pesticides. In the community, the most exploited are those who work producing bricks, receiving a payment of $3 per 1000 pieces. To make more, the entire family must work. Torrential rains have destroyed their livelihood and they are now choked by debt that will be carried on generation after generation. In addition, they are living in homes that are not their own and they need an alternative form of livelihood. Another cause/effect of the system of slavery in which they live is the lack of schooling." (AP/LP) (Agenzia Fides 25/10/2010)
