Another year, another monsoon season. Citizens of Kerala are tested to their limits with the natural elements, leaving more than 350 dead.
This year’s monsoon season is the worst Kerala has experienced in a century and now is a crucial time to support the inhabitants of this country which has faced such tragedy. Many houses have been flooded and severe landslides took place; causing the death of many innocent people. Families, homes and belongings have all been consumed by this disastrous event. Survivors are being rescued by numerous volunteers including the Indian Air Force and they are currently escorted to Relief Camps.
HOW DID THIS OCCUR?
Out of the 14 districts in Kerala, 12 of them had a Red Alert from the Met Office, meaning as many as 30 dams had to be opened. This caused the increase in flood levels, leaving many deserted. Also, Kerala has unfortunately experienced 42% excess of rainfall this monsoon season, adding to the devastation. As a result, road structures have collapsed, even whole houses swallowed by huge landslides, leaving home owners in shock.
The severe events have been taking place for over a fortnight. However, the recovery will take months and the ever changing climate of Kerala will not be in the favour of those trying to save the country from further destruction.
THE GOVERNMENT’S INPUT
The Indian Army and Air Force are all helping out as much as they can by conducting air-lifts and rescue operations. It is claimed that as many as 660 people have been rescued by the Air Force itself and 50,000 altogether saved by ordinary people, volunteering to help out at this time of need.
Those who have been affected are being transported to Relief Camps situated mainly in schools and community centres and this is where Aid workers are primarily helping out. Many states in India and other countries have donated millions for the Relief Fund which is essential for the recovery after floods and purchasing items for the camps.
What they need now is basic amenities. What they need now is YOU!
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Aid workers and volunteers have made a checklist and these items can be sent off as cargo by airlines to collection centres, to be then distributed among everyone who needs it.
Blankets and woollens, tarpaulins/ old flex and ropes, mosquito nets, dry ration (rice, pulses, spices, rava, tea, sugar), toiletries, women’s sanitary items, cooking utensils, cookers, buckets and mugs, water purifier tablets, candles and matchboxes, solar lights, kids’ clothing, sarees, blouses, petticoat, lungis, bedsheets and curtains, new undergarments, slippers, toys and school material, medicines etc
Mentioned above are just everyday items that we take for granted.
There are also donation websites such as:
The Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund
This our call to help, help our brothers and sisters who are holding on to the most precious thing they have – their lives.
- by Ritty Tomichen, Editor of Faith
- Sources: BBC News, The Weather Channel, Hindustan Times, The Indian Express
You must be logged in to post a comment.