In 2019, Cyclone Fani tore through the Indian state of Odisha, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, particularly in the coastal city of Puri. Known for its historical and religious significance, Puri faced significant challenges in the aftermath. Let’s see the strategic response to revitalize and rebuild Puri and how the Sustainable Environment and Ecological Development Society (SEEDS) helped with turning a moment of crisis into a beacon of resilience and innovation.
Immediate Impact and Response
Cyclone Fani, one of the strongest tropical cyclones to hit India in two decades, impacted nearly 1.5 crore people. With winds that peaked at around 200 km/h, the cyclone damaged thousands of homes, infrastructure, and Puri’s critical tourist industry. The immediate response involved a coordinated effort between government bodies, NGOs, and the local communities. Emergency services prioritized restoring power and water supply, clearing debris to make roads passable, and providing essential food and medical aid to affected residents.
SEEDS’ Strategic Response to Cyclone Fani’s Aftermath
In response to the devastating impact of Cyclone Fani, which struck on May 3, 2019, SEEDS, in partnership with local organizations, launched a comprehensive and strategic intervention to assist the affected communities in Odisha and West Bengal. The cyclone severely damaged over 5 lakh houses in Odisha alone, impacting approximately 1.5 crore individuals. The response by SEEDS was multifaceted, addressing immediate and long-term needs to aid recovery and build resilience.
Immediate Relief Needs
Initially, SEEDS focused on immediate relief by distributing 600 family kits containing essential hygiene items such as mosquito nets and soap. This initiative was crucial in preventing the outbreak of diseases following the cyclone. In collaboration with a local partner, SEEDS supported a community-managed kitchen in the Baliapanda slum of Puri, feeding 500 individuals from 123 families at a critical time when access to food was limited.
Access to Clean Water and Promoting Hygiene
SEEDS and its local partner provided training on water safety and chlorinated public water sources in two villages in East Medinipur, West Bengal, benefiting 190 families. Additionally, community water filters were installed in seven areas in Puri, enhancing hygiene awareness and access to clean water. Healthcare was another critical area of SEEDS’ response. Health camps were set up across Puri, providing necessary medical attention to over 100 people suffering from skin, stomach, and water-borne diseases, as well as addressing trauma and mental health issues.
Transitional Homes
A significant part of SEEDS’ strategic response involved the construction of transitional homes in Birapadia Village, Puri. These homes, built with the involvement of the community using locally sourced materials like salvaged timber and bamboo, not only provided immediate shelter but also symbolized hope and resilience. The design emphasized cyclone resistance, incorporating features like roof anchoring systems and veranda-roof separation.
Months after the initial response, the impact of SEEDS’ interventions continued to resonate within the communities. For instance, women in the Pentakota slum took a proactive step by establishing a resilience fund, collectively saving Rs. 1,24,600. This initiative highlighted the enduring empowerment and communal solidarity fostered by SEEDS’ efforts in the wake of Cyclone Fani’s destruction.
Sustainable Recovery with SEEDS
SEEDS has been spearheading a transformative approach to disaster recovery for the past 30 years. In Odisha, focused on the Chandrapur block of Puri, SEEDS implemented a model for resilience that integrates risk reduction with sustainable energy solutions. The initiative targeted a local school and a health centre, transforming them into off-grid campuses. These model facilities were not only restored but also upgraded with enhanced water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities. Key sustainable features included solar panels, solar charging stations, and solar water pumps, supported by energy-efficient fixtures and insulation techniques to reduce energy consumption.
Furthermore, the project emphasized community engagement in the recovery process. Disaster management planning and capacity-building workshops were conducted to empower locals, ensuring they are better prepared for future challenges. This holistic approach not only addressed immediate recovery needs but also fostered long-term resilience, making decentralized energy a potential catalyst for broader sustainable interventions in disaster-prone areas.
Conclusion
The strategic response to Cyclone Fani’s devastation in Puri was a big evidence to the resilience and determination of its people, as well as the effectiveness of SEEDS. By focusing on immediate relief, infrastructure strengthening, environmental conservation, and community empowerment, SEEDS set an example of how to transform disaster recovery into an opportunity for sustainable development and growth. As climate change continues to pose severe weather threats globally, SEEDS comprehensive approach offers valuable lessons on managing and mitigating the impacts of natural disasters.
