New York  - The United Nations is seeking 543 million dollars to assist the hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis displaced by the fighting between Pakistani and Taliban forces.

The top UN humanitarian coordinator, John Holmes, said Thursday the amount was a "planning figure," which may change depending on the needs on the ground for the estimated 1.6 million displaced people, 500,000 of whom may need urgent help.

Holmes said the situation is "desperate" for the displaced and the amount being sought would cover all essential needs until December. More than 200,000 of the displaced people are living in 26 camps.  (dpa)