The Swiss Red Cross (SRK) is sending an emergency response team with eight logistics experts to the earthquake zone in Morocco to coordinate the emergency assistance of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement on site. In addition, the SRK, with support from the federal government, is making 750,000 francs available for emergency aid.
The SRK has also opened a donation account, it announced on Thursday. The logistics team in Morocco takes care of the import and receipt of relief goods.
The emergency services from the SRC’s emergency response pool are directed by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and by the national associations. So far, Morocco itself has rejected some offers of international aid.
The authorities in the North African country have not yet responded to the offer from Switzerland. Only rescue teams from some countries, including Spain and Great Britain, were allowed into the country.
The team of SRK specialists will support the Moroccan Red Crescent in ensuring logistics and taking care of the cargo planes landing in Casablanca and customs clearance, the report said.
The SRK team will also ensure the transport of relief supplies to the affected areas and procure additional materials on site. The Moroccan Red Crescent mainly needs tents, cooking sets, mattresses, blankets and water canisters.
The devastating earthquake that left about 2,800 dead shook Morocco late Friday evening. The American earthquake measuring station USGS gave the magnitude 6.8, Moroccan experts 7.0. The epicenter was about 70 kilometers southwest of Marrakech. Many villages in the surrounding mountains were razed to the ground.
(jam/sda)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
