UN to deploy teams to assess needs of flood victims

The UN joint assessment missions are set to be deployed to the most flood affected areas of the Eastern Terai to gain a better understanding of the needs of those that have been affected.

The missions will be deployed from Tuesday. "The Nepal Red Cross Society has been doing an outstanding job since the crisis began and our teams will work with them to determine how UN and other I/NGO assistance can best support current relief efforts. Specifically we will focus on food, shelter, water and health services for the flood-affected populations," states a press release by the UN.

The UN has reiterated its call for safe passage to relief workers. "As previously stated by the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross, it is imperative that all humanitarian workers are allowed safe and unhindered access, regardless of their ethnicity," the statement adds.

"I appeal to all people within the affected districts to respect international humanitarian principles, to allow safe passage for these workers, and to avoid all political interference, or much needed aid will not get to those most in need." said the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Matthew Kahane. nepalnews.com sd Aug 21 07