Friday, April 16, 2010
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
SPECIAL SUPPORT GROUP FOR IDPs MANAGEMENT
General
1. Consequent to unacceptable levels of militant activities, the Government of Pakistan decided to use the Army for a massive Law Enforcement Operation in Malakand Division resulting in large exodus of masses from the affected area to the adjoining peaceful areas. The magnitude and rate of influx of these IDPs from Malakand Division was so huge (Approximately 400,000 x families) that it became a challenge for the Government to mount an effective response.
2. Provincial Govt, IOs, and NGOs, working in the area, were prompt to respond but the rate of influx was beyond their capability to handle. A need was therefore identified to build the capacity of Provincial Government and provide emergent assistance in shortest possible time. Following Prime Minister’s directive to Army, Special Support Group for management of IDPs was constituted under Chairmanship of Lt Gen Nadeem Ahmed who had rich experience of disaster management as Deputy Chairman ERRA.
Formulation of Special Support Group
3. Concept. Special Support Group was constituted to supplement the national and provincial efforts for efficient management of IDPs, especially those of Malakand Division. The group’s organizational structure was kept dynamic, capable to adjust to the changing situations and organized on cluster based system with the task to facilitate and synergize the work of IOs/ NGOs etc, dealing with the IDPs.
4. Spectrum. Special Support Group’s focus remained on:-
a. Immediate. IDP Management (IDPs of Malakand Division and subsequently dislocated families from South Waziristan).
b. Concurrent / Mid Term. Voluntary, informed and assisted return of IDPs to their native towns.
c. Long Term. Reconstruction and rehabilitation of IDPs based on damage and need assessment (DNA) and Post Crisis Need Assessment (PCNA).
5. Modality
a. Special Support Group works as Sectt for National Committee for management of IDPs, constituted by the Prime Minister under Minister for Information & Broadcasting, having representation from Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Health, Economic Affairs Division etc.
b. At provincial level, it worked to supplement the efforts of the PRC/ PDMA and helped build capacity of all stake holders. Later Special Support Group in collaboration with Provincial Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Settlement Authority (PaRRSA) and Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) is helping the provincial govt in reconstruction in Malakand Div.
6. Forums for Coordination. Special Support Group coordinates and facilitate all the relief and assistance activities at the Federal, Provincial and Divisional Level to synergize the efforts at the execution end.
7. Interfaces. The group had following interfaces:-
a. Govt Depts. Working with all Federal Departments and Provincial stakeholders through Provincial Relief Commissioner for better coordination.
b. Humanitarian World. To engage all donor agencies, IOs and NGOs at all levels for synergy in effort.
c. Effectees. To interact with the IDPs through the camp committees and their elected representatives for midcourse corrections to ensure improved service facilitation and delivery.
d. Military. To seek following information for the benefit of all stake holders and for advanced planning:-
(1) Availability of routes for movement of IDPs and support goods.
(2) Curfew timings for advanced planning.
(3) Requirement of any emergency supplies or evacuations of critically injured/ sick, from affected zone.
8. Military Resources. Approx 1,800 Army troops with Headquarters Special Support Group at Peshawar and field components at Mardan, Risalpur, Nowshera, DI Khan and Tank duly supported by medical units and a transport fleet is managing the entire spectrum of relief operations in host as well as affected areas.
9. Operational Frame Work
a. Strategic direction, planning and coordination through central authority integrating all stake holders - combined ownership.
b. Reinforce govt capacities.
c. Wide community participation.
d. People centered solutions.
e. Remains dynamic to changing situations.
f. Advanced planning to cope with any unforeseen.
g. Judicious use of resources avoiding duplicity.
h. Gradual restoration of responsibility to local civil authorities.
i. Enhance local capacities for relief, recovery and revival operations.
j. One window - one roof operational mechanism at all levels.
Strategic Interventions
10. Besides contributing in camp management, water provisioning, medical assistance, food and NFI distribution there have been seven strategic interventions that Special Support Group has made, which will go a long way in alleviating the sufferings of the affected population. These are:-
a. Formulation of National Response Plan (NRP)
b. Cleansing of IDP registration data through NADRA
c. Cash disbursement through Visa Card
d. Full spectrum relief assistance to Waziristan IDPs
e. Assistance to International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in carrying out Damage and Needs Assessment
f. Facilitating inbound relief cargo clearance, handling and transportation and Visa processing for donor and international humaitarian community
g. Formulation of Returns Strategy
11. IDPs Management Spectrum.
12. IDP management spectrum included fol aspects:-
a. Registration
b. Food Items (Rations and Food)
c. Non Food Items
d. Water Supply
e. Healthcare
f. Camp Management
g. Education
h. Protection
i. Cash Disbursement
j. Return
13. Registration. The registration was carried out by Social Welfare Department and the data was shared with the NADRA for verification. From Malakand Division, Bajaur and Mohmand Agencies, 861,566 families were registered out of which 382,951 families were verified by NADRA and remaining 478,615 were found to be incorrect entries. Similarly, for Waziristan IDPs, 54,884 families were registered, out of which 36,787 families have been verified by NADRA to be correct.
14. Distribution of Food and Non Food Items. Till 15 Nov 09, Special Support Group has distributed total of 11,790 tons of ration and relief goods in host as well as affected areas. Out of this, 4,452 tons of ration and relief goods have been distributed in affected areas of Malakand Division and FATA region, 759 tons of ration and relief goods in affected areas of Waziristan and 6,579 tons of ration and relief goods to IDPs in host areas.
15. Water Supply. Special Support Group helped in improving the water supply in camps both quantitatively and qualitatively. Over 3.0 Million lits of potable water was supplied by Special Support Group using 15 x water bowzers. Water analysis is being conducted periodically to determine its quality before issue in IDP camps. For sufficient supply of clean water to IDPs of Waziristan, 3x tube wells have been installed each at DI Khan and Tank and pressure motors have been supplied for the same purpose. A large no of pumps, filtration plants etc jave been installed by Special Support Group.
16. Health Care. To provide immediate medical care required by the IDPs, Army Field Hospitals were established at Sheikh Shahzad Camp and Jallozai Camp for IDPs of Malakand Division. Sheikh Shahzad Camp Hospital was closed on 20 Jul 09 after the return of IDPs whereas Jallozai Field Hospital is still functional. Total of 123,963 patients have been treated at these hospitals. Similarly, for IDPs of Waziristan, Field Hospital has been established at DI Khan and an Advance Dressing Station at Tank. These facilities have treated 10,938 patients so far. In addition, Mobile Medical Teams also functioned to help the IDPs living with host communities in far-flung areas.
17. Camp Management. For IDPs of Malakand and FATA, 31 x IDP camps were operational. Special Support Group assisted PRC in management of 11 x IDP camps. At their peak load, these camps were hosting 49,390 families with 286,513 individuals. In these camps, following assistance was provided by Special Support Group to the IDPs:-
a. Distribution of 6,579 Tons of rations and relief goods in camps and host areas.
b. Assistance for construction of 140 x shelters (chappars) in 10 camps.
c. Improvement in drainage sys of 10 x camps.
d. Creation of stragglers window for provision of food and NFIs.
e. Provision of Mist Control Fans to various camps purchased through Army Relief Fund.
18. Improvement in Quality of Life. Special Support Group organized number of activities/ facilities to improve the quality of life of IDPs living in the camps. This included organization of 11x sports events in different camps, installment of 5x projection screens along with VPS provided by PEMRA at Sheikh Shahzad Camp, Sheikh Yasin Camp, Shahsowar Camp (Benazir Complex), Jalozai Camp and Jalala Camp and provision of 5x TVs with the help of Geo TV Network for Sheikh Shahzad, Sheikh Yaseen and Jallala camps.
19. In addition to above, 21x wheel chairs were provided to handicapped IDPs, 23x marriage ceremonies were assisted in camps, 6x parks were developed in selected IDP camps of Mardan, Swabi and Nowshera with assistance from PPAF, kids festivals were organized in Jallozai and other camps and Eid Packages were distributed to IDPs in different camps.
20. Education and Skill Training. Assistance in the realm of educational and vocational training was arranged through PPAF, NAVTAC, NGOs and Education Dept, Govt of NWFP. For providing better educational facilities, 121 schools (45 in camps and 78 off camps) were established where 17,987 IDP children continued their education till return to their homeland. Besides this 21 vocational centers were established by PPAF/ NAVTEC for providing vocational training to 25,130 IDPs. For IDP kids from Waziristan, second shifts of classes are being arranged in 84 schools, which are providing education to 3,448 students.
21. Security Assisstance. In view of its sensitivity, Special Support Group has taken over the responsibility of providing security cover to VIPs during their visit. This critical task was performed without jeopardizing its main activities. Some details are:-
a. Elements on ground have carried out apprehension of 15 x miscreants from IDP Camps.
b. Over 30 x foreign and state level delegations have been provided security cover including the President and Prime Minister of Pak.
22. Media Management. Harnessing integral resources and with assistance from ISPR Directorate, Special Support Group has used the powerful media tool to project Army’s contributions in IDP Management in an effective manner. The good work done by the Army broadcasted by national and international electronic and print media has enhanced the positive soft image of Pak Army. Likewise Radio Swat (an ISPR run outfit) was optimally utilized for communication massages for a variety of stakeholders.
23. Cash Disbursement. Cash disbursement progress through VISA CARDs is as under:
a. Cards Distribution for Malakand IDPs. Rs 25,000/- to all verified IDPs.
(1) Total cards distr : 316,738
(2) Total cards activated : 309,349
(3) Total cash wdr by IDPs
(a) ATM : 3.667 B
(b) POS : 4.034 B
(c) Total : 7.701 B
(4) Cards Distr Progress : 96.23 %
b. Cards Distribution for Waziristan IDPs. Rs 5,000/- being paid to all IDPs every month for 6 month as Cash for Food Programme. Another Rs 25,000/- will be paid to them on their return. Rs 1.65 B have been provided by the Federal Government for the same purpose:-
(1) Total cards distr : 11,293
(2) Total cards activated : 7,014
(3) Total cash wdr by IDPs
(a) ATM : 19.557 M
(b) POS : 11.049 M
(c) Total : 30.606 M
(4) Cards Distr Progress : 60.60 %
24. Return Of IDPs. Clearance of area was announced by the Army after the stabilization of security situation in troubled areas of Malakand Division, Subsequent restoration of services motivated the IDPs to move back to their places of origin. Special Support Group in collaboration with Provincial Government, Emergency Response Unit (ERU) and UN organizations chalked out a workable plan to facilitate dislocated families in their return in an organized manner. This phase required meticulous planning and coordination of all stakeholders to organize media campaign, administration and security arrangement en-route and at embussing / debussing points. The assisted return of IDPs was planned in 4 phases, on voluntary basis and on provision of suitable conditions in their areas of origin. The assistance package included provision of Rs 25,000/-, free ration for the family for six months, medical screening, free transportation and en-route security arrangements. The return started on 13 Jul 09 and so far 266,158 families (80.76% of total) have returned to their areas.
25. Establishment of One Window Facility for IDPs of Waziristan. Based on the request of IDPs, Federal Government and Provincial Government decided not to establish any camps for IDPs of Waziristan. Therefore, to streamline the relief activities, Special Support Group created one-window operations for IDPs. The hub created at DI Khan includes the facilities for disbursement of Cash/ VISA Cards, distribution of FIs/ NFIs, vocational training and health facilities by establishing a Army Field Hospital. Another hub on similar lines has been established at Tank as well.
Conclusion
26. The manner in which the IDP Management issue has been taken on by Special Support Group in light of the guidelines provided by the Government of Pakistan and on instructions of the General Headquarters has contributed positively to the overall Image Building of Pakistan internationally and Armed Forces of Pakistan internally, thus accelerating the progress of winning the ‘Hearts and Minds’ of the affected population. It is hoped that a coordinated and integrated effort by all stake holders will produce the desired synergy in our effort to reduce the sufferings of the people and create conditions for their early and safe return to their abodes.
General
1. Consequent to unacceptable levels of militant activities, the Government of Pakistan decided to use the Army for a massive Law Enforcement Operation in Malakand Division resulting in large exodus of masses from the affected area to the adjoining peaceful areas. The magnitude and rate of influx of these IDPs from Malakand Division was so huge (Approximately 400,000 x families) that it became a challenge for the Government to mount an effective response.
2. Provincial Govt, IOs, and NGOs, working in the area, were prompt to respond but the rate of influx was beyond their capability to handle. A need was therefore identified to build the capacity of Provincial Government and provide emergent assistance in shortest possible time. Following Prime Minister’s directive to Army, Special Support Group for management of IDPs was constituted under Chairmanship of Lt Gen Nadeem Ahmed who had rich experience of disaster management as Deputy Chairman ERRA.
Formulation of Special Support Group
3. Concept. Special Support Group was constituted to supplement the national and provincial efforts for efficient management of IDPs, especially those of Malakand Division. The group’s organizational structure was kept dynamic, capable to adjust to the changing situations and organized on cluster based system with the task to facilitate and synergize the work of IOs/ NGOs etc, dealing with the IDPs.
4. Spectrum. Special Support Group’s focus remained on:-
a. Immediate. IDP Management (IDPs of Malakand Division and subsequently dislocated families from South Waziristan).
b. Concurrent / Mid Term. Voluntary, informed and assisted return of IDPs to their native towns.
c. Long Term. Reconstruction and rehabilitation of IDPs based on damage and need assessment (DNA) and Post Crisis Need Assessment (PCNA).
5. Modality
a. Special Support Group works as Sectt for National Committee for management of IDPs, constituted by the Prime Minister under Minister for Information & Broadcasting, having representation from Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Health, Economic Affairs Division etc.
b. At provincial level, it worked to supplement the efforts of the PRC/ PDMA and helped build capacity of all stake holders. Later Special Support Group in collaboration with Provincial Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Settlement Authority (PaRRSA) and Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) is helping the provincial govt in reconstruction in Malakand Div.
6. Forums for Coordination. Special Support Group coordinates and facilitate all the relief and assistance activities at the Federal, Provincial and Divisional Level to synergize the efforts at the execution end.
7. Interfaces. The group had following interfaces:-
a. Govt Depts. Working with all Federal Departments and Provincial stakeholders through Provincial Relief Commissioner for better coordination.
b. Humanitarian World. To engage all donor agencies, IOs and NGOs at all levels for synergy in effort.
c. Effectees. To interact with the IDPs through the camp committees and their elected representatives for midcourse corrections to ensure improved service facilitation and delivery.
d. Military. To seek following information for the benefit of all stake holders and for advanced planning:-
(1) Availability of routes for movement of IDPs and support goods.
(2) Curfew timings for advanced planning.
(3) Requirement of any emergency supplies or evacuations of critically injured/ sick, from affected zone.
8. Military Resources. Approx 1,800 Army troops with Headquarters Special Support Group at Peshawar and field components at Mardan, Risalpur, Nowshera, DI Khan and Tank duly supported by medical units and a transport fleet is managing the entire spectrum of relief operations in host as well as affected areas.
9. Operational Frame Work
a. Strategic direction, planning and coordination through central authority integrating all stake holders - combined ownership.
b. Reinforce govt capacities.
c. Wide community participation.
d. People centered solutions.
e. Remains dynamic to changing situations.
f. Advanced planning to cope with any unforeseen.
g. Judicious use of resources avoiding duplicity.
h. Gradual restoration of responsibility to local civil authorities.
i. Enhance local capacities for relief, recovery and revival operations.
j. One window - one roof operational mechanism at all levels.
Strategic Interventions
10. Besides contributing in camp management, water provisioning, medical assistance, food and NFI distribution there have been seven strategic interventions that Special Support Group has made, which will go a long way in alleviating the sufferings of the affected population. These are:-
a. Formulation of National Response Plan (NRP)
b. Cleansing of IDP registration data through NADRA
c. Cash disbursement through Visa Card
d. Full spectrum relief assistance to Waziristan IDPs
e. Assistance to International Financial Institutions (IFIs) in carrying out Damage and Needs Assessment
f. Facilitating inbound relief cargo clearance, handling and transportation and Visa processing for donor and international humaitarian community
g. Formulation of Returns Strategy
11. IDPs Management Spectrum.
12. IDP management spectrum included fol aspects:-
a. Registration
b. Food Items (Rations and Food)
c. Non Food Items
d. Water Supply
e. Healthcare
f. Camp Management
g. Education
h. Protection
i. Cash Disbursement
j. Return
13. Registration. The registration was carried out by Social Welfare Department and the data was shared with the NADRA for verification. From Malakand Division, Bajaur and Mohmand Agencies, 861,566 families were registered out of which 382,951 families were verified by NADRA and remaining 478,615 were found to be incorrect entries. Similarly, for Waziristan IDPs, 54,884 families were registered, out of which 36,787 families have been verified by NADRA to be correct.
14. Distribution of Food and Non Food Items. Till 15 Nov 09, Special Support Group has distributed total of 11,790 tons of ration and relief goods in host as well as affected areas. Out of this, 4,452 tons of ration and relief goods have been distributed in affected areas of Malakand Division and FATA region, 759 tons of ration and relief goods in affected areas of Waziristan and 6,579 tons of ration and relief goods to IDPs in host areas.
15. Water Supply. Special Support Group helped in improving the water supply in camps both quantitatively and qualitatively. Over 3.0 Million lits of potable water was supplied by Special Support Group using 15 x water bowzers. Water analysis is being conducted periodically to determine its quality before issue in IDP camps. For sufficient supply of clean water to IDPs of Waziristan, 3x tube wells have been installed each at DI Khan and Tank and pressure motors have been supplied for the same purpose. A large no of pumps, filtration plants etc jave been installed by Special Support Group.
16. Health Care. To provide immediate medical care required by the IDPs, Army Field Hospitals were established at Sheikh Shahzad Camp and Jallozai Camp for IDPs of Malakand Division. Sheikh Shahzad Camp Hospital was closed on 20 Jul 09 after the return of IDPs whereas Jallozai Field Hospital is still functional. Total of 123,963 patients have been treated at these hospitals. Similarly, for IDPs of Waziristan, Field Hospital has been established at DI Khan and an Advance Dressing Station at Tank. These facilities have treated 10,938 patients so far. In addition, Mobile Medical Teams also functioned to help the IDPs living with host communities in far-flung areas.
17. Camp Management. For IDPs of Malakand and FATA, 31 x IDP camps were operational. Special Support Group assisted PRC in management of 11 x IDP camps. At their peak load, these camps were hosting 49,390 families with 286,513 individuals. In these camps, following assistance was provided by Special Support Group to the IDPs:-
a. Distribution of 6,579 Tons of rations and relief goods in camps and host areas.
b. Assistance for construction of 140 x shelters (chappars) in 10 camps.
c. Improvement in drainage sys of 10 x camps.
d. Creation of stragglers window for provision of food and NFIs.
e. Provision of Mist Control Fans to various camps purchased through Army Relief Fund.
18. Improvement in Quality of Life. Special Support Group organized number of activities/ facilities to improve the quality of life of IDPs living in the camps. This included organization of 11x sports events in different camps, installment of 5x projection screens along with VPS provided by PEMRA at Sheikh Shahzad Camp, Sheikh Yasin Camp, Shahsowar Camp (Benazir Complex), Jalozai Camp and Jalala Camp and provision of 5x TVs with the help of Geo TV Network for Sheikh Shahzad, Sheikh Yaseen and Jallala camps.
19. In addition to above, 21x wheel chairs were provided to handicapped IDPs, 23x marriage ceremonies were assisted in camps, 6x parks were developed in selected IDP camps of Mardan, Swabi and Nowshera with assistance from PPAF, kids festivals were organized in Jallozai and other camps and Eid Packages were distributed to IDPs in different camps.
20. Education and Skill Training. Assistance in the realm of educational and vocational training was arranged through PPAF, NAVTAC, NGOs and Education Dept, Govt of NWFP. For providing better educational facilities, 121 schools (45 in camps and 78 off camps) were established where 17,987 IDP children continued their education till return to their homeland. Besides this 21 vocational centers were established by PPAF/ NAVTEC for providing vocational training to 25,130 IDPs. For IDP kids from Waziristan, second shifts of classes are being arranged in 84 schools, which are providing education to 3,448 students.
21. Security Assisstance. In view of its sensitivity, Special Support Group has taken over the responsibility of providing security cover to VIPs during their visit. This critical task was performed without jeopardizing its main activities. Some details are:-
a. Elements on ground have carried out apprehension of 15 x miscreants from IDP Camps.
b. Over 30 x foreign and state level delegations have been provided security cover including the President and Prime Minister of Pak.
22. Media Management. Harnessing integral resources and with assistance from ISPR Directorate, Special Support Group has used the powerful media tool to project Army’s contributions in IDP Management in an effective manner. The good work done by the Army broadcasted by national and international electronic and print media has enhanced the positive soft image of Pak Army. Likewise Radio Swat (an ISPR run outfit) was optimally utilized for communication massages for a variety of stakeholders.
23. Cash Disbursement. Cash disbursement progress through VISA CARDs is as under:
a. Cards Distribution for Malakand IDPs. Rs 25,000/- to all verified IDPs.
(1) Total cards distr : 316,738
(2) Total cards activated : 309,349
(3) Total cash wdr by IDPs
(a) ATM : 3.667 B
(b) POS : 4.034 B
(c) Total : 7.701 B
(4) Cards Distr Progress : 96.23 %
b. Cards Distribution for Waziristan IDPs. Rs 5,000/- being paid to all IDPs every month for 6 month as Cash for Food Programme. Another Rs 25,000/- will be paid to them on their return. Rs 1.65 B have been provided by the Federal Government for the same purpose:-
(1) Total cards distr : 11,293
(2) Total cards activated : 7,014
(3) Total cash wdr by IDPs
(a) ATM : 19.557 M
(b) POS : 11.049 M
(c) Total : 30.606 M
(4) Cards Distr Progress : 60.60 %
24. Return Of IDPs. Clearance of area was announced by the Army after the stabilization of security situation in troubled areas of Malakand Division, Subsequent restoration of services motivated the IDPs to move back to their places of origin. Special Support Group in collaboration with Provincial Government, Emergency Response Unit (ERU) and UN organizations chalked out a workable plan to facilitate dislocated families in their return in an organized manner. This phase required meticulous planning and coordination of all stakeholders to organize media campaign, administration and security arrangement en-route and at embussing / debussing points. The assisted return of IDPs was planned in 4 phases, on voluntary basis and on provision of suitable conditions in their areas of origin. The assistance package included provision of Rs 25,000/-, free ration for the family for six months, medical screening, free transportation and en-route security arrangements. The return started on 13 Jul 09 and so far 266,158 families (80.76% of total) have returned to their areas.
25. Establishment of One Window Facility for IDPs of Waziristan. Based on the request of IDPs, Federal Government and Provincial Government decided not to establish any camps for IDPs of Waziristan. Therefore, to streamline the relief activities, Special Support Group created one-window operations for IDPs. The hub created at DI Khan includes the facilities for disbursement of Cash/ VISA Cards, distribution of FIs/ NFIs, vocational training and health facilities by establishing a Army Field Hospital. Another hub on similar lines has been established at Tank as well.
Conclusion
26. The manner in which the IDP Management issue has been taken on by Special Support Group in light of the guidelines provided by the Government of Pakistan and on instructions of the General Headquarters has contributed positively to the overall Image Building of Pakistan internationally and Armed Forces of Pakistan internally, thus accelerating the progress of winning the ‘Hearts and Minds’ of the affected population. It is hoped that a coordinated and integrated effort by all stake holders will produce the desired synergy in our effort to reduce the sufferings of the people and create conditions for their early and safe return to their abodes.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Sunday, November 8, 2009
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