430 tonnes of rice bound for flood victims

The government has handed over about 430 tonnes of rice worth over 3.3 billion kip provided by the Japanese government as part of ongoing disaster assistance to the southern provinces.
The support includes about 149 tonnes of rice for communities in Borikhamxay province, 100 tonnes for Khammuan, 81 tonnes for Savannakhet, and 100 tonnes for Champassak province.
Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Welfare, Mrs Baykham Khattiya, and representatives from the provinces attended a ceremony in Vientiane recently to receive the rice.
Mrs Baykham said the donations were timely and would help to meet the need in these provinces.
“After this rice distribution, authorities will evaluate whether any more support is in keeping with actual community needs,” she said.
In recent years, many people have been rendered homeless as floods destroyed houses, as well as killed livestock, damaged infrastructure and submerged farmlands.
Lao people, representatives of various sectors, international organisations, and foreign countries continue to assist disaster victims, and this aid was part of that ongoing support, she added.
According to the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, following major floods, provincial authorities are working to repair bridges and roads to facilitate the work of volunteers in distributing money, food, and clothing.
While flood-hit communities receive assistance from provincial authorities, donors and NGOs, many families still need help with health services, hygiene and sanitation, and the provision of general consumer items following natural disasters.

By Phetphoxay Sengpaseuth
(Latest Update August 12, 2019)