A waterwheel in Hama in Syria
New York/Damascus: Over 5 million people are estimated to be affected by the ongoing water crisis in the north and north-east of Syria. People across the northern parts of Syria have been unable to reliably access sufficient and safe water due to low water levels, disruptions to water systems, and the already reduced operational capacity of water stations.
Lack of safe drinking water is leading to an increased prevalence of waterborne diseases and is reducing a critical first line of defence to stem the COVID-19 pandemic. The lack of electricity also adds to the strain on public health, education systems and is disproportionally impacting the general and reproductive health of women and girls.
In New York, Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the United Nations Secretary-General, told reporters that the UN along with its partners, had released a consolidated plan over the next six months, which will target 3.4 million of the most impacted people in those areas of Syria as a result of the water crisis.
Dujarric though informed that while the requirements identified the necessity of a multi-sector response of $251 million, only $51 million have been received.
– global bihari bureau
