SILVER SPRING, MD (July 18, 2023) – The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) is urgently responding to the devastation caused by Cyclone Biparjoy in India. The storm made landfall in India’s coastal regions on June 15th, bringing widespread destruction to homes, infrastructure, and agricultural areas, as well as sparking massive flooding across multiple states.
Cyclone Biparjoy exceeded winds of over 125 kilometers per hour and torrential rains, killing two people, injuring hundreds, and displacing at least 100,000 families, children, and individual citizens. According to local authorities, thousands of people remain stranded, without electricity, and require immediate food, clean water, shelter, and medical assistance.
“ADRA is committed to providing immediate relief and long-term support to those affected by Cyclone Biparjoy in India. We have been on the ground since the storm hit. Our emergency response team is working tirelessly to assist devastated communities to ensure they receive the necessary support. ADRA has been distributing hundreds of hygiene kits to help prevent waterborne diseases, gastrointestinal and skin infections. We will continue to collaborate with local authorities, other humanitarian groups, and Adventist Church volunteers to prioritize long-term recovery and rehabilitation needs that can aid people in rebuilding their lives,” says Weston Davis, ADRA country director for India.
ADRA is also assisting families affected by the Manipur Violence in India, which is the result of clashes between the Meitei people of the Imphal Valley and a variety of tribal groups. Hundreds of people have died because of the crisis since May, and roughly 51,000 people, including women and children, have been displaced and housed in 350 relief camps. ADRA is providing food and medical supplies, as well as facilitating resources for child-friendly spaces at relief camps by distributing play kits to youngsters.
In addition to disaster response, ADRA has been serving the Indian community for more than 30 years through livelihood, health, and education programs serving women and children.
