KARACHI: Pakistani peacekeepers have rescued more than 2,000 people stranded due to heavy floods in the Uvira region of South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Torrential floods ravaged Uvira and surrounding areas last week and continued for a few days. Rains and flooding damaged thousands of houses and affected around 75,000 people.

According to a press release, Pakistani Blue Helmets, part of the UN Mission in Congo (MONUSCO), immediately rushed to the affected areas for rescue and relief of Congolese populace.

Rescue parties were immediately dispatched with paramedics and rescue equipment to different locations. Troops also built a stone embankment to check the floodwater, which was strong enough to shift people and vehicles from the affected areas. The stranded people were served with food and provided necessary medical care.

Pakistani peacekeepers’ rescue efforts have been widely acknowledged by locals as well the UN authorities.

Being one of the largest troops contributing country, Pakistan has more than 4,000 blue helmets serving under the UN for maintaining peace and stability.

The Pakistani peacekeepers, 157 in number, have laid their lives during various UN missions for preservation of global peace, while serving humanity with honour, courage and dignity.

Published in Dawn, April 27th, 2020