Madaya update 6.1.2016

Emergency situation: Madaya, located about 40 km north-west of Damascus has been besieged for more than six months. Current population now includes the original residents and IDPs from surrounding areas (Zabadani, Blodan) which is estimated at 40,000 people. Landmines have been placed1 around the town and the mountainous areas surrounding the city (Lebanon eastern mountains chain) make as well access very difficult. The situation is deeply concerning: There have been reports of people eating cat meat, tree leaves and grass to survive while other recent reports talk about death from starvation and many cases of severe malnutrition. Winter weather and sub-zero temperatures are intensifying the emergency situation.

FSL Cluster partner reports: One FSL partner has reported the following: • More than 500 cases of malnutrition are documented and the numbers are increasing; • 70 case of severe malnutrition are hospitalized in the poor medical centers in the area; • 150 case of fainting every day because of the lack of food; • 30 person have died because of starvation; Prices of food items :  Rice : 1 kg / 130 USD  Starch : 50g/ 50 USD  Wheat : 1 kg/ 250 USD  Milk : 295 ml/ 10 USD

On-going or planned response: A joint humanitarian convoy from Damascus is reported to move into Madaya pending the necessary permit and authorization. Due to the besiegement of Madaya, there are no reports of any other FSL Cluster partners currently reaching the area.

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One FSL Cluster partner reported there are 6,000 land mines placed in the surrounding perimter of the town with more than a dozen receiving amputations while attempting to escape.