Further infrastructure work is also nearing completion, with planning for the next phase, which will extend the site by an additional 5,000 plots, already underway.
At the nearby Haj Ali Emergency Site, preparations to erect 1,000 tents, including earthworks, tent site demarcation, fencing, road and drainage infrastructure are all underway.
IOM continues to work closely with the Government of Iraq’s Ministry of Migration and Displacement (MOMD) to identify locations and develop emergency sites.
IOM Iraq Chief of Mission Thomas Lothar Weiss said: “With the support of the MOMD, preparations at IOM’s emergency sites are well underway. Through IOM’s emergency response, as well as assistance for those displaced longer term, we aim to provide support to improve conditions for those who have suffered so greatly.”
This month IOM Iraq has carried out relief operations in areas newly retaken from ISIL, targeting newly displaced people who have fled to more stable areas. Last week, 110 full winter non-food relief item (NFI) kits were distributed, including blankets, heaters and carpets, to families in the town of Haj Ali. The kits were funded by the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID).
“We were caught in the crossfire – we fled our village on foot. We had to leave everything behind – including our livestock and cars,” said one man from a village west of Mosul, who fled with his 14-member family.
“Once we arrived in safe areas we were transported by truck to Haj Ali. The school where we are sheltering does not have enough space for all the families. The local community has provided some support, but we still urgently need more help.”
IOM Iraq’s emergency response activities include provision of NFIs, shelter support, health and psychosocial assistance, and camp coordination and camp management (CCCM.)
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