Odisha government’s credible efforts have saved the lives of lakhs of people. However, the trail of destruction left behind by Cyclone Fani is severe. Over 14 lakh people evacuated during Cyclone Fani are living in congested shelters. The cyclone has brutally impacted 14 districts in Odisha, consisting of a population of around 1.07 crore. Widespread destruction of houses, property, standing crops has affected the livelihood of people. A collaborative approach from various stakeholders is the need of the hour.
Aahwahan Foundation was amongst first NGO’s to hit the ground hard and contribute to the relief work. Our volunteers observed that affected people did not have access to toilets and sanitation. This could result in an increase in epidemics and water-related diseases.
Aahwahan Foundation raised the issue with local authorities and requested them to take prompt action to avoid an outbreak of epidemics. We provided mosquito nets to prevent an outbreak of malaria. Needless to say, non-availability of food and water is also one of the key issue faced by the people.
Aahwahan Foundation has provided food parcels to over 500 people in some of the worst affected areas. It is common knowledge that the overall infrastructure, including powerlines, were seriously disrupted. One of our volunteer’s installed a portable Honda generator on his bike and went from one household to another in Bhubaneshwar for 2 days, helping the residents to recharge their mobile. We are also speaking to the government to give us permission to clean the beaches and other environmentally sensitive areas which have been affected by the cyclone. Odisha’s path to rehabilitation and reconstruction is going to be long and hard. The magnitude of the problem is overwhelming.
Aahwahan Foundation has made a small but significant contribution in alleviating the suffering of people affected by Cyclone Fani. In the coming days and months, Aahwahan Foundation would continue to serve the people of Odisha and stand by them in this hour of crisis. We are always willing to collaborate with stakeholders at the regional, state and national level to scale up the relief initiatives
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