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UNDP is mobilizing its resources across Myanmar to support UN relief and assessment efforts in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis. Personnel, vehicles and motor boats from other project sites are being utilized in the Ayeyarwady Delta, where the estimated number of severely affected population is between 1.2 and 1.9 million.

The resources already in the Delta, and others on their way are enabling UNDP and its partner PACT, to provide immediate assistance to people through its project teams in 19 locations in the affected areas, including Kyaiklat, Bogale, Mawlamyaingyun, Labutta and Pyapon.

While UNDP is not a relief agency, small teams of national staff are traveling almost daily to these townships, and in coordination with the government and with the existing field personnel, are working with relief agencies such as UNHCR, UNICEF and WFP to assist with the movement and distribution of urgently needed items such as water, food, plastic sheets, cooking utensils, medicines and clothing. At the same time, UNDP is contributing to the ongoing assessment of the situation by the UN.

“While we continue in partnership with other organizations and in coordination with the government to try and address the needs of those most affected by Cyclone Nargis, much more must be done, and very quickly if we are to avert compounding the suffering of people who have endured too much already,” said UNDP Myanmar Deputy Resident Representative, Sanaka Samarasinha.