Rp 16b aid for Banggai quake

Rp 16b aid for Banggai quake

LUWUK, Central Sulawesi (JP): The government has allocated Rp
16 billion for rehabilitating damages caused by a strong
earthquake which hit Banggai regency earlier this month.

Minister of Settlement and Regional Development Erna Witoelar
said on Sunday the funds would be used to rebuild housing and
transportation facilities.

"But the funds will not be disbursed in the very near future
as it is designed as long-term assistance. The funds will be
given after all the refugees return," she was quoted as saying by
Antara.

She said immediate efforts included providing clean water
facilities, public toilets and emergency tents to substitute for
damaged schools.

At least 46 people were killed and hundreds of houses damaged
in the quake measuring 6.5 on the Richter scale.(jun)