Human rights group Aliran has launched an appeal to supplement the relief efforts of other groups to assist victims in north-west Indian state of Gujarat recently ravaged by an earthquake.

"As of Feb 1, the official death toll according to the Gujarat state emergency control centre had reached 14,240 and state officials feared that the figure could eventually rise to at least 35,000. The number of the homeless were estimated at more than 600,000," according to Aliran president P Ramakrishnan.

He said in a statement yesterday that blankets as well as portable water supplies were badly needed as the victims are exposed to harsh weather conditions and also to deadly infectious diseases.

On Jan 26, Gujarat was struck by an earthquake that measured 6.9 on the Richter scale, reputedly the strongest in half a century.

"Tens of thousands of missing persons remain unaccounted for, but experts say few people can survive more than 100 hundred hours while buried in rubble," reported Ramakrishnan.

"Much of the relief efforts has now shifted to getting tents, blankets and medical care to the survivors and control measures against the explosive spread of infectious diseases," he added.

Contributions needed

Those wishing to make monetary contributions should send crossed cheques made out to Aliran (Gujarat Earthquake Relief Fund) at 103 Medan Penaga, 11600 Penang, telephone number: 04-4658 5251 or fax: 04-4658 5197.

Those who wish to donate clothes, blankets, bed sheets, food or other supplies can deliver them to collection centres organised by the Malaysian Hindu Sangam (04-262 7822, 016-422 7833) the Lions Club of Georgetown ()4-226 2962, 012-421 2756), the Malaysian Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (04-262 0960, 017-475 0960) and Cosmart Supermarket.

"Aliran's collections will end on Feb 28 and all monies collected will be accounted for and delivered to the Indian High Commission or to other Indian groups that will reliably use the funds to benefit the earthquake victims," Ramakrishnan said.

Meanwhile, two opposition parties will visit the High Commission of India tomorrow to express their condolences to the victims of the earthquake.

A PAS Youth delegation, headed by Slahuddin Ayub, will be providing humanitarian aid through the Indian mission, while Wan Azizah Wan Ismail will lead the Keadilan delegation.