22nd January, 2013
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UNDER WATER: Jakarta is facing its worst floods since 2007. PICTURE: World Vision |
At least 26 people have died and more than 50,000 people are living in temporary shelter following the worst floods to affect Jakarta since 2007.
Heavy rains – which have left parts of the city in water three metres deep and caused blackouts, the closure of businesses and schools and rising food prices – is expected to continue into February amid fears of disease outbreaks.
Anthea Spinks, World Vision Australia’s head of humanitarian affairs, says hygiene kits, clean drinking water and temporary sanitation are vital in preventing disease outbreaks among those affected by the floods.
“Waterborne illnesses are a major concern when floods hit," she says.
“It doesn”t take much for serious diseases to spread through affected communities, but clean drinking water and temporary sanitation can help prevent potentially-fatal illnesses such as cholera and dengue.”
World Vision is handing out of child hygiene kits as well as blankets and sleeping mats.
Ms Spinks says that rising food prices will "put a lot of pressure on people who are already facing some serious challenges without the added burden of rapid inflation".
“Unfortunately these floods have affected some of the poorest people in Jakarta, the very people with the fewest resources to evacuate or access emergency goods.”
Jakarta has a population of about 9.6 million people.
To donate to the Emergency Preparedness Fund, which helps World Vision respond to disasters, call 13 32 40 or go to www.worldvision.com.au.
– DAVID ADAMS
