ADRA Emergency Operations for Record-Breaking Landslides in India
16 August 2024 |
Record-breaking rainfall has been the catalyst for devastating landslides in Kerala, India, resulting in 361 fatalities and more than 250 individuals missing. This natural disaster is the result of numerous issues, such as five times the regular amount of rainfall, the region’s steep terrain, rampant deforestation, and inadequate drainage systems. The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) has launched emergency operations to aid the areas affected, which include Meppadi, Chooralmala, Vythiri, and Mundakkai.
“ADRA’s team in India has been on the ground visiting communities and families affected by the devastating recent floods and landslides in Kerala. The team has been conducting assessments to identify the most urgent humanitarian needs and coordinating with local stakeholders to support families grappling with the aftermath of this disaster. So far, ADRA India has been providing emergency food packages to affected households while continuing to plan a response to address longer-term and assist them in rebuilding their lives,” says Elizabeth Tomenko, ADRA’s Emergency Response Coordinator in ADRA’s coverage of the event.
The catastrophe has caused the isolation of affected areas, hindering aid attempts. ADRA has partnered with local authorities and community members across India to reach devastated areas and work towards providing necessities and assessing the damage. The hazardous conditions have caused complications, but ADRA’s India branch is dedicated to providing support and relief.
In their original statement, ADRA has assessed key relief areas for practical aid. The key response initiatives are as follows:
- Food Rations: Providing essential food supplies to meet the immediate nutritional needs of families and individuals impacted by the disaster.
- Hygiene Kits: Delivering kits for personal cleanliness and health to prevent the spread of disease and ensure basic hygiene standards are met.
- Public Health Education: Promoting safe water practices, sanitation, and hygiene.
- Early Recovery of WASH Facilities: Clearing debris and restoring water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities to ensure safe and healthy living conditions for affected populations.
- Child-Friendly Spaces: Establishing safe, supportive, and stimulating environments for children affected by the crisis. These safe spaces protect youngsters from harm, exploitation, and abuse.
- Non-Food Items (Shelter Materials): Ensuring affected communities have access to safe, functional, and dignified shelter options during and after crises.
- Mental Health Psychosocial Support: Offering counseling and emotional support through community-based support groups and workshops to build resilience, reduce stigma, and foster collective recovery among affected populations.
- Livestock Support and Care: Facilitating veterinary services and emergency care for injured, or sick, animals affected by the disaster, including vaccination, wound care, general health assessments, animal welfare practices, and humane treatment during emergencies.
