News Delhi (Fides Service) - The Catholic Bishops of India have expressed sympathy and solidarity with the victims of the October 8 earthquake the disputed region of Kashmir which struck on both sides of the border.
On the Indian side Catholic organisations have joined rescue workers and aid agencies with Jammu-Srinagar diocese coordinating efforts: volunteers, medical personnel and medicines and supplies of food and clothing continue to arrive from all over India. The diocese is already assisting 2,000 homeless people but the number continue to rise particularly in the Kashmir districts of Kupwara, Baramulla and Poonch. In 54 villages, according to local Church sources, 90% of the homes are wrecked, roads and communications have been cut and it is difficult to get aid where it is needed .
Caritas Indiana has appealed to Catholics to give generously. Rescue teams are coordinated by Fr. Alex Vadakumthala who said: “Food, clothing and medical care are the most urgent commodities at the moment. Families have lost loved ones, homes, possessions. Survivors now face a situation of dire necessity”. Aid is on the way from Caritas Internationalis.
In the meantime the Bishop of Jammu-Srinagar Peter Celestine Elampassery accompanied by priests and religious is visiting the affected areas to assess needs and priorities. When the quake happened the Bishop was at St Joseph’s School Srinagar for the school’s Centenary celebrations. When the tremor came the Bishop was with the pupils and staff in the courtyard. No one was hurt and the school was not damaged.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 10/10/2005 righe 27 parole 265)