Tidal wave victims need aid

Tidal wave victims need aid

MANOKWARI, Irian Jaya: Regent Mulyono said his office needs
around Rp 1.5 billion (US$635,055) to rebuild hundreds of houses
destroyed in an earthquake and tidal wave which hit the area in
February.

One hundred thirty-four houses disappeared during the
disaster, while another 263 were either seriously or lightly
damaged, Antara reported on Wednesday

Mulyono said that there are currently funds on hand totaling
Rp 120 million which were collected from various organization's
donations. In addition, the provincial government has allocated
Rp 300 million to build 300 houses in several villages affected
by the disaster.

He called on his residents, however, to resettle in other
areas which are less prone to disasters.

As of today, 126 families or 630 people are still living in
makeshift shelters. Other victims have returned to their own
homes. The local government is still supplying the residents with
food and other goods, Mulyono said. (swe)