USAID to build 60 schools in quake area

As part of its reconstruction efforts, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will construct over 60 schools and 20 health units in quake-affected areas of Pakistan’s North West Frontier Province (NWFP) and Pakistani-administered Kashmir. "The construction of the first school in the city of Balakot - one of the most affected cities in NWFP - would start in February,” said an agency press statement issued in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, on Tuesday. USAID is committed to rebuilding using construction methods that leave people less vulnerable to quakes and aftershocks. Furthermore, they will shortly begin training masons and skilled workers on earthquake-resistant construction practices, said the press note. Through a pledged grant of US $200 million, the US development agency intends to build 60 more schools – 40 primary and middle schools and 20 high schools later this year, in addition to one in Balakot. The agency also plans to assist in the training of teachers who will work at the schools. “USAID will work closely with the government to select schools to rebuild,” said the agency statement. More than 80,000 people were killed and 3.5 million people were left homeless after the 7.6 magnitude quake ripped through the area on 8 October, just weeks before the start of the harsh Himalayan winter, creating one of the most challenging humanitarian operations ever. As the relief phase comes to an end, gradually efforts are shifting more on focusing on early recovery and revival of livelihoods of quake-affected communities. As part of that effort, USAID also plans to construct healthcare facilities, including a secondary hospital, four rural health centres, along with 20 basic health units this year. According to USAID, the agency plans to support these facilities by increasing the capacity of healthcare professionals and healthcare systems in the affected areas. Washington has pledged $510 million for earthquake relief and reconstruction. The relief funds cover humanitarian supplies and ongoing military operations ferrying in supplies and evacuating victims in need of urgent medical care. Meanwhile, Pakistani Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz is visiting the United States this week where he is scheduled to meet US President George W Bush on Tuesday in Washington.