Summary
Content
- At least 80% of the estimated 300,000 people in Gonaives have been displaced or otherwise affected by Hanna and Ike.
- Several bridges have been washed out, making the roads leading to affected areas impassable.
- Prime Minister said 60 U.S. military engineers were being dispatched to Haiti to help rebuild roads and other infrastructure.
- The United States was also sending boats and helicopters to bolster relief efforts. France, Canada, Spain and Venezuela had also promised assistance.
- On 8th September the World Food Programme (WFP) reported providing transport for the entire humanitarian community. This is challenging because after Hurricane Ike all bridges collapsed and all road links have been cut. Transport is possible only by sea and by air.
- On the 8th September OCHA reported that relief operations in Gonaives are further hampered by the increasing scarcity of fuel and mounting security concerns.
- A Flash Appeal is being finalised as well as a CERF request.
- The Humanitarian Coordinator has informed that United Nations and partners are using the cluster approach to support the Haitian government's efforts.
- The Global Logistics Cluster Support Cell reported today that 4 clusters should be activated: Logistics, Shelter, WASH and Early Recovery.
- Roads from Port-au-Prince (PAP) as well all other roads into Gonaive are flooded and inaccessible.
- Helicopter base can be set-up in the Log Base in PAP. The helis will transport foodaid and NFIs to the unfinished bridge before Gonaive. and then do a series of short sorties by helos for the remaining few kms to maximise the use of the helos. Distance from PAP to Gonaive is approx 100 kms.
- Landing zone near the bridge before Gonaive needs to be identified and fuel drums will be needed on this location.
- Security is very likely to be an issue for transport and deliveries of humanitarian aid.
- US Naval Vessel due to arrive with 6 heave-lift helicopters, but will only be available for 1 week.
- Americans are also bringing in Landing Craft Units (LCUs) for a short period.
- Fuel is a bottleneck in Gonaive
- Vessel with 1200 mt capacity which can be used to supply Gonaive is available locally