Bangladesh seeks foreign aid to help survivors

Bangladesh sought more foreign aid Tuesday to help thousands of survivors of Cyclone Sidr after the storm mauled the country's coast and killed more than 3,100 people, according to an official tally that was expected to rise.

Food, fresh water and temporary shelter had still not reached many of the hungry and exhausted survivors. “At this time we will welcome support from the international community,” said a statement from Bangladesh foreign ministry.

The government said international aid worth about US$120 million (euro81.89 million) has been promised. But tents, rice and water have been slow to reach most survivors. The American Red Cross said it will provide US$1.2 million (euro819,000) to help get clean water to the survivors and build emergency shelters.