US military aircraft supporting Pakistan's flood relief efforts delivered over of 10 million pounds relief supplies since August 5, when US military relief flight operation started in Pakistan.
According to the details provided by the US Embassy here on Friday, to date, US military helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, working in close partnership with the Pakistan military, have transported more than 10 million pounds of relief supplies and rescued more than 17,000 people, delivering much-needed aid and providing transport to people who urgently need emergency assistance.
There are currently 26 US military helicopters in Pakistan supporting relief efforts in Pakistan with more offshore aboard USS Peleliu. An average of four to six C-130 and C-17 aircraft deliver aid daily throughout the country operating from bases in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
The United States responded immediately and generously to Pakistan's call for assistance following the tragic and devastating floods that began July 29 using the full range of unique capabilities and humanitarian assistance. The US Government is providing approximately $345 million to assist with relief and recovery efforts, which does not include considerable in-kind and technical assistance specifically to address the impact of these floods. An additional $50 million has also been allocated for initial recovery efforts to assist with rebuilding communities impacted by the floods. Besides, the US on Friday transferred four ambulances, worth Rs 12 million ($140,230), to the Fata Directorate of Health Services in a ceremony held at the FATA Secretariat.
The ambulances will be used by health facilities in North and South Waziristan Agencies, FR Kohat and FR D.I. Khan. "The provision of these ambulances will improve the existing healthcare system and services in conflict-affected areas of southern Fata and provide life-saving support to more than 90,000 people in the region," said US Consul General Elizabeth Rood.