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The northeastern state of Assam in India has once again faced the wrath of devastating floods. With the mighty Brahmaputra River and its tributaries overflowing, the floods have been particularly severe, affecting millions of people across the state and causing widespread destruction as well as immense damage to lives, property, and the environment.
Impact on human lives and the environmental consequences of the floods
Every year, Assam witnesses a recurring natural disaster in the form of floods. The state's topography consists of vast plains and low-lying areas. So, the combination of torrential rain (often exceeding 10,000 mm in some areas) and the natural slope of the land towards its intricate network of rivers make it prone to such calamities during the monsoon season. 17 of Assam’s 34 districts are considered “severely flood-affected” areas and, as estimated by the National Commission on Floods, 10.5 million of its people live in flood-prone areas.
In 2020, the annual floods in Assam affected at least 56 lakh people, one way or another. This year, The Assam State Disaster Management Authority has reported that over 4 million individuals have been impacted by the devastating floods, with 1 million of them being children. Additionally, the floodwaters have submerged a total of 1,479.27 hectares of cropland. The deluge has also affected 24,261 domestic animals and poultry. The situation in the districts of Lakhimpur, Dehamji, Jorhat and Sivasagar are especially grim.
People have been displaced, left homeless and vulnerable, seeking refuge in temporary relief camps. Access to clean water, sanitation facilities, electricity, nutritious meals and healthcare has become a major challenge, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases and health issues. The floods have disrupted transportation, cutting off several communities from essential services and supplies. The lack of infrastructure has particularly affected women, exacerbating their difficulties. Moreover, the absence of proper facilities for managing menstrual hygiene has further amplified their challenges.
Tribal Connect and flood relief efforts
In these flood-ravaged villages, local authorities and many national organisations, like Tribal Connect, have been working tirelessly to provide relief to the affected communities. Rescue operations, distribution of essential supplies, and medical assistance have been undertaken on a large scale. The state government has set up relief camps to provide temporary shelter, food, and healthcare facilities to those displaced by the floods.Amongst the affected regions, Barpeta district in Lower Assam has borne the brunt of this natural calamity. The images of homes swallowed by water and lives upended are heart-wrenching. However, Tribal Connect, helmed by Karamveer Chakra awardee Ananya Paul Dodmani, has refused to let despair take hold. Recognising the dearth of the situation, they are rallying their resources and expertise, focusing their efforts on providing aid and relief to those in desperate need. Beyond Barpeta district, other areas such as West Karbi Anglong, Hojai, and Nagaon have also felt the full force of nature's fury.
Dedicated volunteers are currently on-site, bracing these treacherous conditions and working tirelessly to assist the affected residents in coping with the aftermath of this calamity. Relief efforts have been ongoing for over 20 days now, during which Tribal Connect has been actively involved in providing nourishing meals to women and infants through communal kitchens. Additionally, essential items such as sanitary pads and diapers are being distributed to ensure the well-being and hygiene of the affected population during this challenging period.
How your support can make a difference
As we witness the devastating impact of this natural disaster, it is crucial that we come together as a community to extend a helping hand to those affected. Your generous donation can make a significant difference in providing relief and assistance to the victims of the Assam floods.
Here's how your contribution can bring hope and aid to those in need:
- Utilities to buy and prepare food: Your contributions will help Tribal Connect acquire the utilities and ingredients needed to prepare nutritious meals for the flood-affected victims.
- Emergency relief: Your donation will help provide immediate relief in the form of essential supplies, clean drinking water, food, and dry grocery kits to the flood-affected communities. It will ensure that basic necessities are met during this challenging time.
- Shelter and rehabilitation: Your support can help in setting up and maintaining relief camps, providing temporary shelters, and assisting in the rehabilitation of those who have lost everything.
Remember, no contribution is too small. Even a modest donation can have a significant impact when combined with the generosity of others. Together, we can bring relief, healing, and resilience to the people of Assam.
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Charity No : 319201431163
