FED: Unicef Australia launched Iran quake appeal

AAP General News (Australia)
12-29-2003
FED: Unicef Australia launched Iran quake appeal

SYDNEY, Dec 29 AAP - The Australian arm of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
has launched an emergency appeal for the survivors of the devastating earthquake in Iraq,
a local spokeswoman for the charity said today.

A quake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale struck the oasis city of Bam in Iran's
south-east over the weekend, levelling 70 per cent of houses, killing about 22,000 and
injuring 50,000 people.

UNICEF Australia spokeswoman Pam Garcia said she hoped to raise up to $1 million with
the immediate priorities to provide for the thousands of people left homeless.

She also warned that more people could die from disease.

"In addition to injured directly resulting from a quake ... the breakdown of basic
sanitation and the supply of clean water along with infection risks and low temperatures
at night can lead to outbreaks of disease," Ms Garcia said.

Internationally, UNICEF has already contributed more than 80 tonnes of emergency supplies
to the relief effort.

Two UNICEF planes carrying tents, children's blankets and water were flown into Bam
yesterday and more are expected soon.

Australians can donate to UNICEF Australia's Iran Emergency Appeal by calling 1300 884 233.

AAP kjd/smb/cjh/

KEYWORD: QUAKE IRAN UNICEF

2003 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.