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Continued rains further Pakistan flood devastation. An estimated 13 million people have now been
affected by Pakistan’s worst floods in history, which have taken over 1,600 lives, damaged
or destroyed 650,000 homes, and inundated 550,000 hectares of farmland since heavy rains
began in July. As the floods surge south, 1 million people are being evacuated for their
safety from Sindh province, while 12 million people have already been displaced in the
northwest and Punjab. In the worst affected areas, entire villages have been stranded,
with top priority currently placed on rescuing people, although the extreme conditions are
hindering efforts. According to Pakistani glaciologist Iqbal Khan, this disaster stems
from climate change, which is changing monsoon patterns and causing the rapid melt of Pakistan’s
more than 200 glaciers. Dr. Khan noted that more than half of their water reserves already
been lost and warned that after the flooding, water scarcity would ensue.
Since hearing of the initial flooding, Supreme Master Ching Hai had already sent US$35,000
and requested that our Association members, including those trained in medical fields
such as doctors and nurses, go to help. Upon knowing of the further impact to the Pakistani
people, she donated an additional US$30,000, asking that our Association members purchase
and bring sheltering tents to the most desperate such as children and the elderly. The combined
US$65,000 could acquire US$1,160,000 in urgent supplies purchased in the United States, based
on Pakistan’s cost of living.
Our prayers and appreciation are with all personnel working to help the flood victims,
as well as Professor Khan for sharing this important insight. We thank Supreme Master
Ching Hai for her attentive care to the vulnerable as we pray that such tragic situations may
be quickly curbed as our gentler stewardship helps restore the Earth’s balance�