UK releases more funds to help Pakistan recover Quake Loss
By Raza Mumtaz 'Pakistan Times' Executive Editor/UK Bureau Chief

LONDON (UK): Britain's Department for International Development (DFID) has announced the release of a further 44 million which will be spent over the next two years in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the earthquake-hit areas of Azad Kashmir and Northern Pakistan.

DFID is one of the Group of Seven large donors. Last year it pledged a total of 70 million over three years to help with long-term reconstruction.

An amount of 5 million has already gone towards rebuilding bridges, training teachers, and TB and mental health treatment.

Last week DFID Minister Gareth Thomas visited a girls' school in Chakothi, a village situated 3,700 feet above sea level, which was destroyed by last year's earthquake.

Now, despite heavy rains and occasional landslides, the school is due to reopen. It is much bigger and better-equipped with, amongst other things, a new library and computer facilities.

The reconstruction project in Chakothi is one of hundreds undertaken by the Government of Pakistan working together with international donors.●