SINCE most of the tsunami relief operations have been focussed on Tamil Nadu, we decided to turn our attention to Kerala.
I left with a Red Cross team last Tuesday. We were preceded by visits from the Kolhapur and Pune Red Cross medical teams.
There are three distinct stages of work that follow a disaster: rescue, relief and rehabilitation.
The last task faces us now and housing material, fishing boats and nets are needed in large quantities.
Though the casualties are comparatively lower in Kerala, there has been tremendous loss of property and about 50,000 families have been rendered homeless in the three coastal districts of Ernakulam, Quilon and Alleppey.
From my work in relief distribution and ground assessment over the past days, these are my observations for those who want to help:
* Do remember, the victims have lost their possessions, not their dignity.
* Don’t use the disaster to clear out your house of old clothes and utensils that you don’t need. These old items pose a major logistical problem for us, and are perceived as an insult by victims on the ground.
* Fisher folk—already in a state of trauma— used to wearing lungis cannot be expected to suddenly take to your old trousers.
* Do give cash donations, if you trust your non-governmental organisation enough.
If not, call them up and discuss what items are needed on the ground and how much you can contribute.
After a national disaster-management meet we will have a better sense of this.
* If qualified, donate your services. A major task that faces us in Kerala is providing psychological treatment.
While the fishermen want to return to their villages, many are in shock and need help to overcome their fears.
Social workers and child-care professionals are also needed.
Homai Modi heads Red Cross (Maharashtra). The organisation is located at 141, Shahid Bhagat Singh Road. Call: 22661524