Help flood devastation recovery in Odisha, India

Flood water from the devastating summer floods has been receded since last two months, but created large scale loss and damage to the property to vulnerable communities in Odisha. The displaced population have returned to their houses but now they face the challenge of repairing their houses more fully and reviving their livelihoods.

Although the flood water has receded, still there is no work for the labourers, who are from the Dalit community. The agriculture is completely damaged, thus there is no availability of farm labour. The Dalit families usually depend upon farm labouring in the region and are finding it hard to gain an income to pay for daily food. Because of this, dry food such as rice, lentils, sugar, oil, biscuits, baby food, salt, and candles and match boxes continue to be needed. The drinking water sources need to be disinfected in order to ensure safe drinking water.

Feed for surviving animals is also required, as the grass is not available and the stoked paddy straws are also destroyed.

There is a need to start hand washing campaigns in villages, especially with women and children, which will both help personal hygiene as well as to reduce the risk of coronavirus. Fifty villages need immediate attention with this, as sanitation was under water for some time.

Your support has gone towards the immediate needs during and following the flooding. Thank you so much for your generosity during this devastating time in Odisha. Your support continues to support those whose livelihoods have been destroyed and in the move towards recovery. 

With gratitude,

Erika Narkiewicz

www.karuna.org