NORTH KARNATAKA FLOODS RELIEF

The Impact of the 2019 Floods 

In August 2019, northern Karnataka experienced relentless heavy rainfall, resulting in widespread floods that devastated the region. The disaster led to the loss of life, livestock casualties, landslides, and extensive damage to livelihoods, property, and infrastructure, including roads, water supply systems, and electricity. Approximately 700,000 people were affected. Official reports from the Karnataka State Government confirmed that the floods claimed 61 lives, with 15 individuals reported missing, and caused substantial losses in agriculture and livestock.

Rescue and Relief Operations  

In response to the floods, a massive rescue and relief operation was initiated. The Army, Navy, Air Force, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF), district administration, NGOs, and local communities worked together to provide aid to those affected. Rescue efforts successfully evacuated 697,948 people and 51,460 animals from the floodwaters, and 1,160 relief camps were set up to provide temporary shelter to 396,617 evacuees. 

Impact on Agriculture and Homes 

The floods severely affected farming communities, with 859 livestock reported dead and damage to over 56,381 homes. Additionally, 458,000 hectares of agricultural and horticultural crops were damaged, causing significant economic hardship for farmers and their families.  

Flooding Exacerbated by Reservoir Releases  

The flooding was worsened by the release of excess water from reservoirs in Maharashtra, which significantly impacted districts such as Belagavi, Vijayapura, Raichur, Kalburgi, Yadgir, and Uttara Kannada. During August, these areas received nearly six times their average rainfall, with Belgaum and Bagalkote being the hardest hit. In these districts, 512 villages were affected, and over 240,000 residents were evacuated. Schools were turned into rescue centers, and classes were suspended for nearly a month due to the emergency situation.

Project Overview

In collaboration with Amma Foundation in Belgaum and Chaitanya Mahila Sangha in Mudhol, SEVAK launched a Flood Response Project to support those affected by the floods. As part of this initiative, 1,350 children who lost their school supplies were given assistance, bringing hope and a sense of normalcy to families grappling with the trauma and uncertainty surrounding their children’s education.  

Key Outcomes 

– The initiative provided relief to families affected by the economic strain of the floods.

– It helped children return to school by providing necessary supplies.

– The project alleviated some burdens on families during the crisis.

– It offered hope to families amid the devastation caused by the floods.

– Families expressed relief seeing their children smile again, knowing their education was back on track.