Delhiites help flood victims get back on their feet

NEW DELHI: Tragedies often bring out the best in people even if the victims are miles away. Delhiites in several parts of the city are collecting funds, packed food, medicine, shoes and clothing for the Uttarakhand flood victims who are still waiting to be rescued. 

In Ashok Vihar, NGO Prerna, along with residents, collected relief. Three trucks loaded with the material will start for the flood-hit areas of Uttarakhand to reach it to them. 

"Thousands of people are in need of things like shoes, medicines, blankets and packed food. We have asked residents to donate what they can—be it money or material. We have tied up with the RSS camp in Dehradun and they will reach the relief to the victims by helicopter," Mahender Nagpal of Prerna said. 

People in Vasant Vihar have, meanwhile, started collecting funds. "We have sent a mail to everyone in the area and people can contribute through cash or cheque. Once the money is collected, it will be sent to the PM's relief fund by next week," Sameer Bhagat, joint secretary of Vasant Vihar Resident Welfare Association, said. 

In Rajouri Garden, special pujas and havan were held for the safety of the stranded. "Special pujas are being held in temples everyday and yajnas were arranged for the victims," Neelam Gulati of Rajouri Garden RWA said. A funds collection drive is on at the temple for the flood victims. 

The residents of Krishna Nagar in east Delhi are collecting warm clothes. "Warm clothes and blankets are being collected along with money for the victims. Candlelight vigils and prayers are also being held," BS Vohra, member of an East Delhi RWAs Front, said. 

Even the municipal corporations have decided to contribute money for the flash flood victims. "A sum of Rs 10 crore will be contributed. We will be buying packed food and other things that the victims need with the money and send these across since rescue operations will take time owing to the rains," Subhash Arya, leader of the House, South Corporation, said. All councillors will donate Rs 2,100, which is their monthly allowance, for the Uttarakhand flood victims. 

with thanks : Times of India : LINK