The Adventist Development and Relief Agency International (ADRA) has sent its rapid assessment team to Tajikistan in order to be prepared for potential increases in the movement of refugees from Afghanistan into the Central Asian republics.

“Preparedness is a critical part of disaster response,” says Mario Ochoa, executive vice president of ADRA International. “The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is anticipating that more than 1.5 million people may flee if conflict develops. With winter setting in throughout the mountains of Central Asia, the toll will be horrendous for the unprepared.”

The ADRA team anticipates immediate needs will include food, health care, clean water, and shelter. Refugee camps will also need to be constructed and maintained. ADRA will continue to coordinate with other non-governmental organizations as it prepares its response to any potential refugee crisis.

Tajikistan is a mountainous country in central Asia west of China with more than 140,000 square kilometers. The worst drought in 50 years brought the nation to the brink of famine late last year. Mountain winter temperatures are often as low as 50 degrees below zero Fahrenheit (minus 45 degrees Centigrade) and heavy snow closes mountain passes five months of the year.

ADRA International has established a “9-11 Fund” in recognition of those whose lives were impacted by the suicide attacks of September 11. Go to www.adra.org for updates and donation information.