Millions displaced, World Vision India starts response in the worst affected districts in West Bengal

Over 200 people dead and around 10 million people affected in West Bengal, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Manipur and Odisha.
 
According to media reports, the number of deaths and people affected is the highest in the state of West Bengal. As per Disaster Management Department (DMD) officials the death toll caused in the flood affected areas of West Bengal has increased to 125.

As many as 743,000 houses were damaged and crops over an area of 1,292,372 hectares have been badly hit across 12 districts in the state. The affected areas includes 21,885 villages. So far 22,716 cattle heads were also lost, said Disaster Management Department officials.

As flood waters receded, the affected people were found suffering from diarrhoea and snake bites. Some breached embankments of rivers were being repaired by state governments. According to the Disaster Management Department, 2,450 relief camps have been set up to shelter nearly 507,000 marooned people and 824 medical camps opened. The government has also taken steps to protect the affected people from health hazards, while medicines and drinking water pouches were being distributed.

World Vision India's Response

World Vision India is responding to the flood affected people in the state of West Bengal. The district of Bardhaman, Purbastali block I and II, will be the main focus for World Vision India’s Emergency Relief Response where 4000 households will receive relief goods consisting of food, non-food item kits (like kitchen supplies), shelter kits, and hygiene kits.

"Assessment and enumeration to identify beneficiaries is underway in consultation with community leaders. A special focus is being given to families with children," says Kunal Shah, Director – Disaster Management, World Vision India.