August 30, 2010 - The United States quick-impact cash-for-work programs to help rehabilitate flood-damaged infrastructure. Flood waters washed out roads and bridges, leaving many villages stranded and unable to get aid. With funding provided by USAID, workers are repairing access paths and tertiary roads so aid can reach those in need.

USAID is providing 21-days of work to approximately 4,800 households in Swat. In each target community, a tool kit is being distributed including wheel barrels, crow bars, shovels, hoes, hammers and steel pans. With these tools, USAID-funded teams are working to construct jeep tracks in areas not passable after the floods and repair bridges in the area. These short-term jobs provided by USAID will help repair key infrastructure and put money in the pockets of flood-affected people. This will allow workers to purchase much needed food and supplies in local markets, spurring economic regeneration and early recovery. Additionally, aid will now be able to reach these stranded communities.

The United States has provided more than $150 million in emergency humanitarian assistance to the people of Pakistan to date. In support of the Government of Pakistan, the current U.S. flood relief priorities are to reach those in inaccessible areas and provide them aid, assure the current flood emergency is not compounded by a health crisis, and utilize all appropriate USG resources efficiently and effectively.