While relief flights to some regions have resumed, icy temperatures 
continue to pose a threat to earthquake survivors and create challenges for 
relief workers. By some reports, Pakistan is under the grip of the worst 
cold spell in 35 years, which is expected to last a few more days in remote 
mountain areas where the effects of the October 8, 2005 earthquake have 
been felt most severely. 

IMC continues to reach treat people through our mobile and fixed clinics, 
with nearly 2,500 people being treated last week alone. A new water and 
sanitation program will begin soon, with the first of five employees 
arriving today. IMC’s water supply scheme will assist more than 800 people 
in Peshora, where it is rehabilitating the devastated water supply channels 
from the source to the household level as well as providing hand pumps 
where needed. 

IMC also provided lavatory slabs to assist 800 people in Qals area and a 
needs assessment survey was completed in Qals along with about 40 
spontaneous camps in Mansehra, Siran valley and Balakot. 

Additional funds were secured to implement psychosocial and basic health 
care activities. With the first phase of mental health training completed, 
IMC staff continues to assist patients with psycho-social needs at its 
fixed and mobile health units. The second phase of training, conducted by 
IMC’s roving mental health specialist, Dr. Lynne Jones, will begin soon. 

While IMC was able to distribute 3,000 blankets last week, the drop in 
temperatures has put children and the elderly at risk. There is a 
tremendous need for more support in winterization of tents, alternative 
shelter, warm rooms, clearing debris for reconstruction and rebuilding, and 
water and sanitation projects.