Dear All, As it is now very clear from various reports emanating from every nook and corner of flood affected regions of Bihar, that the official response has been far too slow and insufficient. The vagaries of nature have further deepened the crisis as rains all over North Bihar have created fresh problems for the affected people as well as the administration. The food grains have started reaching the poor and needy, as the Govt quota, albeit delayed, has started reaching the masses. But the main problems that lie ahead are those of reconstruction and rehabilitation. All along, one very important aspect of this whole issue has been largely ignored. One of the main sources of income for the poor and needy are their livestock, primarily cattle. Some of the attached photographs would bring out the misery of these hapless creatures in dire need of both food and medical aid. Similarly the total destruction of kuttcha houses means practically no place to live for the poor when they return from Camps. The life in camps though initially appeared better than what they were used to in villages, has been under continuous strain with fresh arrivals and limited space. The ensuing ghettoisation would lead to certain socio-cultural conflicts which would play havoc with the lives of these people long after the floods have disappeared. Already there are reports of illicit relationships developing and suggestions of distributing condoms along with other relief materials. The media has so far not responded to these challenges by entering those areas where one needs to wade through waist to neck deep water. All the show seems to be focused on the camps located around the main roads where the administration is already well entrenched. The NGOs are implored to really apply themselves at this hour of need and ensure quick disposal of relief materials to the interiors and prevent building of stocks as they have limited means of storing. It is also requested that teams of para-medics and veterinary doctors are organized quickly to visit the ailing animals and provide urgent relief. Against this very depressing background, what really inspires hope and optimism is the will and resolve of the local people who have time to time risen up to fight for their rights as well as got together to help themselves by the following means:- · Organizing dharnas and blockades · Stock the immediate necessities · Construct temporary bamboo structures for housing and make shift bridges · Cooperate with all the agencies in providing relief and rehabilitation To ensure that this spirit remains undefeated and full of resolve, urgent response is needed from all over, irrespective of petty regional, communal and local concerns. Thanks and regards Udayan Chandra Roy Kosi Nav Nirmaan Abhiyaan Purnea
-- Earthlings!!! Time is running out. Solve all your issues fast and brace up for the new challenges as WE prepare to launch OUR civilization on MARS!!!! Bihar Group E-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://yahoogroups.com/group/Bihar-Network http://bihar-network.blogspot.com/
