UNICEF reported water problems for more than 4.7 million people in Aleppo.

More than 4.7 million residents of Aleppo province, half of them children, are facing a complete water cut, which significantly increases the risk of illness, Ammar Ammar, a spokesman for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), told. 

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“In Aleppo governorate, the entire population – more than 4.7 million people, half of them children – is facing complete water cuts, significantly increasing the risk of waterborne diseases for children and their families,” he said.

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Ammar added that work was being coordinated to repair the Al-Hafse water station in eastern Aleppo, which feeds the Suliman Al-Halabi pumping station. But these repairs are seriously hampered by the fighting.

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“UNICEF calls on all parties to immediately cease hostilities, respect international humanitarian law and prioritize the protection of civilians, especially children. It is critical that humanitarian workers are given rapid, safe and unhindered access to provide life-saving services and support to people affected by this conflict,” the organization’s representative emphasized.