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In the fall, several cyclones passed over the Bay of Bengal in India, bringing heavy rainfall. The entire coastal region was affected and many animals and people were in danger. The animal shelters of our local partner VSPCA suffered enormous damage, mainly due to the large volumes of water.
Zykon Phailin hit the Asian ‘open bill stork’ particularly hard in October. On the night of the storm, around 4000 storks disappeared in the area around Telekunchi. Another 2000 birds were left traumatized, completely soaked and abandoned, unable to move or feed themselves. Many had broken wings and legs or other serious injuries.
The state authorities and disaster teams were only concerned about the people on the ground. The animals were not included in the rescue operations. After appeals from VSPCA, few organizations sent support only for a few days. Therefore, rescue teams from our local partner VSPCA were all over the area to rescue animals injured by the storms. However, there were no buildings to provide warmth and shelter for the injured animals, no food and not enough trained veterinarians. During this time, we were in constant contact with our partner, financed what was needed and provided advice.
Despite the precarious situation due to the mud, lack of electricity and lack of support, the team managed to save most of the 2,000 birds thanks to their continuous efforts. 33 birds were so young that they had to be fed by hand. Unfortunately, many died despite all efforts. The work of the rescue teams was also essential for the people. They retrieved dead birds from the water and mud and burned them to prevent the outbreak of disease amidst all the misery.
Disaster situations often demand the impossible from the emergency services. The helpers are under constant physical and psychological strain, there is often no decent accommodation in the area where they are deployed and there is often an inadequate food supply. These people therefore deserve the utmost respect for their selfless commitment.
