Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
New Delhi (Fides Service) - The national office of the Pontifical Mission Societies in India is busy assisting people affected by the recent earthquake in Kashmir. National PMS director Mgr Ingnazio Siluvai immediately contacted the Bishop of Jammu-Srinagar diocese where the quake struck to express sympathy and assure solidarity on the part of Pontifical Mission Societies offices all over the world. PMS intervention in the area is being coordinated by Fr Shaju Chako and Fr. Ivan Perreira in charge of PMS activities in Jammu-Srinagar diocese. They formed a team of volunteers at the disposal of the Bishop. At this stage it is important to assess needs to ensure that help goes where it is needed.
The earthquake struck on both sides of the border, in India and in Pakistan, and local Church sources say humanitarian assistance underway is helping to overcome diffidence and difficulties in the contested region in the past the cause of war and violence between these two colossal nations of the Indian sub-continent. In recent months the situation has improved to the point that in the present common tragedy military and civil authorities on both sides of the frontier are facilitating transit for humanitarian aid: a sign which could be one positive aspect of the disaster which, according to UNICEF has robbed over 4 million people of their homes.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 13/10/2005 righe 27 parole 271)
