DUSAHNBE, June 3, 2009, Asia-Plus  -- Aid agencies in Tajikistan are appealing for $1.3 million to help some 12,000 people in urgent need of assistance after floods inundated more than half the Central Asian nation’s districts, the United Nations reported yesterday.

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said prolonged and heavy spring rains have resulted in multiple floods and mud flows in 40 out of 58 districts.

The most urgent needs at this time are water and sanitation for 3,000 people taking shelter in displaced persons camps.

Last week, OCHA provided $118,250 for tents, household items and fuel for the delivery of clean water.