Abu dhabi: The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has launched the "Water Aid" initiative to mitigate the impact of extreme summer temperatures in the UAE and abroad, allocating an initial AED11.5 million for its implementation. The initiative targets workers and other groups engaged in outdoor activities during periods of extreme heat.

According to Emirates News Agency, the initiative in the UAE will provide sunshades for workers, insulated water containers, and water coolers at public transport stations, while also maintaining water coolers in mosques in cooperation with the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat. Internationally, it includes the installation of water storage tanks and water distribution networks in the areas most in need.

Ahmed Sari Al Mazrouei, Secretary-General of the ERC, stated that the "Water Aid" initiative builds on the ERC's humanitarian programmes in the UAE and abroad to improve quality of life, aligning with the objectives of the Year of the Family 2026. He noted the initiative reflects the ERC's commitment to protecting people's health, reducing the impact of extreme weather, and preserving human dignity.

Al Mazrouei emphasized that the initiative comes amid rising global temperatures driven by climate change and global warming. He mentioned that the ERC has completed preparations and is working to attract more partners to expand the initiative's reach and increase the number of beneficiaries in the UAE and abroad. He highlighted that the initiative would help create new water sources in countries facing acute water shortages, urging donors and philanthropists to support this significant form of charitable work.