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CAFOD

Assam floods: How is CAFOD responding?

24 August 2020
India - Assam floods

In many places, the raging waters crossed the danger mark, breaching embankments and inundating villages.

The 2020 monsoon season in India has brought heavy rainfall, triggering massive floods and landslides affecting millions across Assam state and causing 104 deaths.

The 2020 monsoon season in India has brought heavy rainfall, triggering massive floods and landslides affecting millions across Assam state and causing 104 deaths.

According to the Assam State Disaster Management Authority, the flood has affected over 2.5 million people in 2,525 villages in 26 out of 33 districts in Assam.

In many places, the raging waters crossed the danger mark, breaching embankments and inundating villages. There has been extensive damage to houses, and many people urgently need clean water, food, and medicine.

Our partners are already on the frontline, providing emergency assistance to those in need.

The impact of coronavirus

The situation this year has been especially severe and complex due to the Covid-19 pandemic, with many people out of work for months due to lockdown and food stocks almost depleted.

The affected villages are also very remote with many communities only accessible by boat during the monsoon season.

Pray for the communities affected by the flooding in India

Many water sources were contaminated by the flooding so many people lost access to both drinking water and water needed to wash their hands to stop the spread of coronavirus.

Additionally, access to sanitary products like soap and antiseptics liquids is extremely limited.

How is CAFOD responding?

CAFOD and the Caritas network are providing emergency relief to affected communities. Our partners in the region, Caritas India, are already scaling up their response to help families affected by the flooding.

Caritas India has been providing life-saving humanitarian assistance to 1,600 of the most vulnerable families, distributing cash and basic hygiene items. They are also holding awareness raising sessions on hygiene and Covid-19 prevention.

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