Kerala faces severe floods: nurses union joins rescue effort

As of 20 August, the death toll due to floods in the southern Indian state of Kerala stood at 1,361. More than 700,000 people are now in close to 3,000 relief camps across the state. Rescue and relief efforts have been tireless, by the government and by civil society.

Since 28 May 2018, incessant monsoon rains have led to the worst ever flood crisis in the southern Indian state of Kerala. The situation worsened on 15 August, and 13 out of the 14 districts were put on a red alert. 35 of the state’s 39 dams have been opened and 41 of its 44 rivers are flowing above the danger mark. The state’s busiest airport in Kochi has been shut since 15 August due to flood waters entering the runway and is unlikely to open before 26 August. Train and road traffic have also been affected and completely halted in several areas in the coastal state.

United Nurses Association (UNA) a PSI affiliate has already contributed more than 13,000 Euros to the Government’s relief efforts. In addition, UNA has deployed union members to critical areas to help with the relief effort. A team of eight office bearers from UNA participated in a rescue mission in the tribal area of Nilambur bringing food and clothes to affected communities. Around 30 families from Vettilakolli village were rescued by the mission. UNA units in other Indian states are coordinating the collection of money and medicines, and connecting people in need with rescue teams.

As the water has started receding, rehabilitation efforts are starting. Public infrastructure has been badly affected, including public hospitals and other health facilities. UNA and the government of Kerala will require your support.

Follow the efforts of UNA on Facebook: www.facebook.com/officialpageuna/ and on their website: www.unaworld.org