For women like Sabita Das, Manasi Kalita, and Rinku Devi, the perennial flooding in their area, Kalibari Amingaon, has become a tragic ritual. They fret the months of May, June and July when their low-lying but densely populated area gets submerged. Consequently, relief camps become their substitute homes for many months.
“Every year, floods destroy our crops, animals, and properties, compelling us to leave everything behind and seek shelter in nearby relief centres,” says Sabita Das, 35, a mother of two young girls aged 5 and 7, currently taking refuge at Saraighat Higher Secondary School in Amingaon. She adds, “Most shelters lack proper sanitation facilities, making it especially difficult for women during menstruation. Our grievances often go unheard due to the absence of women in authority.”
This year is different, at least in terms of the facilities. Das is relieved to find herself in a relief camp managed entirely by women this time round. She is hopeful that her issues will finally be addressed.
In response to the challenges faced by women, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), for the first time, has strategically established Model Relief Camps in 157 revenue circles across Assam to ensure the safety and security of female inmates.
GD Tripathi, CEO of ASDMA, tells Asom Barta, “Investing ₹1 in preparedness can save ₹50 during a disaster. This year, we have engaged with six thematic stakeholders to enhance our response to the flood situation effectively.”
“Investing ₹1 in
GD Tripathi, CEO of ASDMA
preparedness can save ₹50
during a disaster. This year, we
have engaged with six thematic
stakeholders to enhance our
response to the flood situation
effectively”
Tripathi spoke of Model Relief Camps exclusively managed by all-women management committees in each circle, aiming to increase gender participation and ensure better care and hygiene in the camps.
Sadhari Baishya, an Assistant Teacher at Saraighat HS Secondary School and a committee member, describes this as a learning opportunity, saying, “As teachers, we have various responsibilities, but managing a relief camp with other women is a new and challenging task.”
Meanwhile, Tilak Chandra Goswami, Principal of Saraighat HS school and in-charge of the relief camp, is all grateful to the State Government for establishing a Model Relief Camp at his school. “Women and children spend most of their time in these camps while men search for work once the floodwaters recede. The formation of an all-women committee will provide better opportunities for women flood victims to voice their concerns.”
Goswami concludes that sincerity of women assistants ensures that every amenity reaches the inmates in the relief camps.
Children are among the most affected by disasters, with prolonged school closures during floods which severely impact their education. Child-friendly spaces in these camps have not only engaged children but also ensured they receive essential services such as education, nutritious food, and proper hygiene. “The Government of Assam has mandated the establishment of such spaces, along with breastfeeding corners, in every relief camp,” says Tripathi.
While Model Relief Camps have been set up in all 157 revenue circles, operations are currently active in approximately 50 circles. Independent monitors from UNICEF will evaluate one-third of these Model Relief Camps and provide feedback to the Government of Assam.
NB: Due to torrential rain in the first & second week of June, the relief camp was set up at the Saraighat HS School. However, with the improvement in weather conditions, the camp has now been closed, while its inmates have returned to their respective homes and hearths.
