Asian Development Bank boosts TC Harold recovery

The Asian Development Bank and Government yesterday signed a grant agreement in response to the Tropical Cyclone Harold recovery. Masayuki Tachiiri, ADB’s Regional Director of the Pacific Sub-regional Office said the funding, which amounts to $900,000, would support immediate relief for affected persons in the various islands.

It will be used for the supply of drinking water, sanitary kits, shelters, medications and other immediate essential needs.

Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the funding would help Government mitigate the risks and damage left behind by TC Harold.

“The efforts were somewhat unique because we had to be cognisant of the COVID-19 risks and go ahead with it.”

A similar funding was provided in 2016 under the Asia Pacific Disaster Response Fund. $2m was provided to help in rebuilding efforts post TC Winston.