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The World Bank has announced a grant of 900 million dollars for relief and reconstruction work following the floods in Pakistan. This was announced by Pakistan Finance Minister Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh after his meeting with World Bank's Pakistan Director Rachid Benmessaoud on Thursday. According to a statement, they discussed the scope of the banks' support for relief and reconstruction. "As a consequence of the meeting, the country director has agreed to commit an amount of 900 million dollars for the purpose," The Dawn quoted Dr. Shaikh, as saying. Meanwhile, Benmessaoud said that the damage and needs assessment (DNA) exercise in the affected areas would start next week. The DNA validates data provided by the government regarding the impact of a disaster from a broad range of sectors and perspectives. On the basis of the DNA, the Pakistan government will convene a donors' conference soon to seek international assistance. The 'worst floods in Pakistan's history' have claimed the lives of over 1,600 people and affected 15 million. In addition to causing major human loses, they have destroyed hundreds of thousands of homes, and washed away crops and livestock.

World Bank announces 900 million dollar grant for Pak flood victims