MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
The Australian Government is greatly concerned by the devastation and
disruption to life caused by the widespread flooding along the Mekong River in
Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos.
The Australian Government's overseas aid program will contribute $530,000 to
the Australian Red Cross to assist in helping flood victims in each of these
countries with emergency food aid, clothing, shelter and household kits.
Australia's aid contribution will also be used to prevent the spread of
infectious diseases and improve hygiene and sanitation facilities.
The early arrival of heavy rainfall has resulted in the Mekong River in
Cambodia reaching record levels, affecting bordering provinces and Phnom Penh.
An estimated 600,000 persons are affected, in addition to 100,000 hectares of
rice crops.
The situation is critical in Vietnam's Mekong Delta, where 60,000 people have
been relocated while a further 500,000 people remain in
their flooded homes. Most of these people have lost food stores but are
reluctant to move because there is very little high ground.
In Laos, at least four major rice-producing provinces have been badly
affected and are now facing food shortages.
Media contacts:
James Baker (Ministerial) 02 6277 7500 / 0419 206
890
Greg Clough (AusAID) 0417 683 126