Andina

Peru PM: Aid will definitely reach out to landslide-isolated areas

El titular de la Presidencia del Consejo de Ministros (PCM), Fernando Zavala, junto al ministro de Agricultura y Riego, visitan el mercado Santa Rosa en la Urbanización Palomino. Foto: ANDINA/ Norman Cordova

El titular de la Presidencia del Consejo de Ministros (PCM), Fernando Zavala, junto al ministro de Agricultura y Riego, visitan el mercado Santa Rosa en la Urbanización Palomino. Foto: ANDINA/ Norman Cordova

14:10 | Lima, Mar. 23.

The Peruvian Government will soon complete humanitarian aid delivery to areas isolated as a result of river overflows and landslides, Prime Minister Fernando Zavala announced on Thursday.

As is known, the Inca nation has been hit by natural disasters in recent weeks. These have clogged highways and country roads, thus cutting off several communities from the rest of the country.

"We hope to be able to reach out to all isolated communities today or tomorrow bringing humanitarian aid," Zavala told RPP radio and TV station.

Efforts will also serve to "evacuate those who need to leave [their hometowns], whether to get medical assistance or for any other reason."

In the case of northern Tumbes region, relief is being distributed via helicopters. 

"Yesterday, the Labor Minister [Alfonso Grados] had the chance to reach out to many of these communities, delivering food supplies and evacuating people," the Cabinet Chief noted.  

In Lima region areas that are too high for helicopters to reach (3,000 to 3,500 m.a.s.l.), other kinds of aircrafts are carrying out aid delivery operations from highland localities, he explained.

"Economy Minister [Alfredo Thorne] traveled to Lima's northern areas, and we've also identified certain zones where communities are yet to be contacted," he observed.

The government official also stressed the need to guarantee fumigation of such flooded areas to prevent diseases and epidemics. 

To conclude, Zavala urged citizens to continue donating supplies to address victims' growing needs. 

"Food supplies, water and personal hygiene utensils are the priority," he pointed out.

(END) DHT/MVB

Published: 3/23/2017