On 8 October 2005, an earthquake measuring 7.6 on the Richter scale ripped through northern Pakistan, leaving 80,000 people dead and affecting 3 million more. The crisis is far from over: survivors of the earthquake still face dangers and difficulties as the worst of Pakistan's winter weather has now settled in. Many people are huddled in tents and shelters that give inadequate protection against the freezing temperatures, with only sporadic and insufficient supplies of food.
While saving lives remains the immediate priority throughout the winter, there is also a need to start laying the foundations for reconstruction and rehabilitation. As the journey towards reconstruction begins, the opportunity must be seized to raise those affected out of the poverty that existed before the earthquake. Measures must also be taken to reduce people's vulnerability to future disasters. Particular attention needs to be given to addressing the needs of the poorest people and of women.
