Risk Returns

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] 161

CMDRR is an experiment by partners across various

states and villages of India. We intend to create a few

good models, which in turn will become examples for

others to emulate.

Task force members carried out the following emergency opera-

tions in all the villages before, during and after the cyclone:

• Provided early warning of the cyclone through village information

centres

• Evacuated people and assets to safer places

• Helped in the distribution of food packets, water and other emer-

gency relief provided by the Government and voluntary organizations

• Cut tree branches and cleared debris

• Carried out rescue operations in floodwater

• Helped in the provision of medicine and the spraying of bleach

powder.

Task force and community action in the wake of cyclone Aila in

West Bengal

The impact of DRR is reflected in a sense of togetherness that was

prominent during the post-Aila period in West Bengal. Task force

and community members took an active role in various activi-

ties. These included collecting all dead animals and fish from the

affected area for burial, spreading bleach powder after the disaster

to keep the environment clean and disinfecting wells. In total, 27

breached embankments were repaired.

Health and first aid task force groups collected ORS packets

and distributed them among the families in affected areas, having

already conducted training in how to prepare the solutions when

required. Panchayat and Government health staff cooperated

on the distribution of halogen tablets to purify drinking water.

Other activities undertaken included re-excavation of the drainage

system and ponds for desalinization.

Task force members helped in the initial needs assessment and

took an active role in supporting the distribution of relief materials

by the State Government. By sharing information with community-

based organizations and Panchayathi Raj institutions, they enabled

timely coordination of activities.

Community flood shelter built by Caritas

Raised platform and tube well

Image: Caritas India