Christian Aid Launches Floods Appeal

Thursday June 27 2013

Christian Aid has launched an emergency appeal to provide assistance to communities and pilgrims affected by flash floods and landslides in northern India.

At least 20,000 people are missing as heavy and incessant rains, which began on Friday June 14, continue to hit the region, with the state of Uttarakhand most affected.

Over 60,000 pilgrims visiting shrines in the area were initially left stranded as damaged roads and bridges made the area inaccessible. More than 600 people have died, with the death toll likely to exceed 5,000 according to Disaster Management Minister Yashpal Arya. More than 100 villages have been severely affected in Rudraprayag, Chamoli and Uttarkashi districts with up to 1,000 homes damaged or washed away.

Rescue missions to save a remaining 10,000 stranded pilgrims have been hindered by additional rainfall and minor landslides in higher Chamoli and Pauri districts.  The early monsoon rains are believed to be the heaviest for 80 years and the possibility of further substantial rainfall is forecast.

Christian Aid local partner organisation CASA has already distributed food, such as fruit, biscuits and bottled water, blankets, shelter and medicines to those affected in Uttarkashi district and has initiated an assessment of needs in Rudraprayag district. Fellow CA partner organisations SEEDS and IGSSS will also provide humanitarian assistance and plan to help to rebuild homes and livelihoods. Christian Aid has released an initial £100,000 for the relief effort.

Anand Kumar, Christian Aid’s India country manager said: ‘Tragically the number of people who have lost their lives and who are missing is going to rise in the coming days following this disaster. Many areas still remain inaccessible which makes relief and rescue operations very difficult.

‘Christian Aid remains in contact with partners and local organisations working in the region and is awaiting more information on the impact of the disaster in the upper reaches and surrounding villages.’

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