The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

The Australian government will provide An additional Australian $ 6.5 million to help Bangladeshi communities recover from cyclone Sidr, which caused widespread devastation in November last year.

Earlier, Australia made a contribution of Aus $ 3 million as relief for cyclone-affected people in the northern districts, said a release here on Wednesday.

"Australia's additional funding of A$ 6.5 million will help meet immediate needs through provision of food to 800,000 people, upgrading water and sanitation facilities and distribution of nutrition supplements for over 50,000 women and children, Australian High Commissioner, Douglas Foskett said.

The funding will also support rehabilitation of damaged schools in the affected areas, the Australian envoy said.

"This contribution reflects Australia's strong commitment to Bangladesh, particularly in its time of need, and our concern for people suffering in the affected areas," he added.

Australia will contribute Aus $ 4 million to the World Food Programme (WFP)'s post cyclone response programme, which will provide rice, pulses, vegetable oil, iodized salt, high-energy biscuits and wheat soya blend to families in urgent need. This contribution is in addition to Aus $ 1 million already contributed to WFP for its immediate cyclone relief program.

Australia will also provide Aus $ 1.5 million to BRAC for provision of nutrition supplements to 16,000 pregnant women and nursing mothers for six months, rehabilitation of around 2000 destroyed and damaged schools, replacement of school supplies, and provision of water and sanitation facilities.

Another Aus $ 1 million would be provided to UNICEF for micronutrient fortified blended food for pregnant and nursing mothers and infants. This support will contribute to UNICEF's efforts to prevent a potential outbreak of malnutrition among vulnerable cyclone-affected women and children.

With the Australian contribution, UNICEF will provide food to over 40,000 pregnant and nursing mothers and infants between 6 to 24 months old.