On 20th May 2020, the eastern part of India, especially Kolkata and surrounding districts (East Midnapore, North 24 Parganas, South 24 Parganas, Howrah, and Hooghly), was devastated by Cyclone AMPHAN. With speeds of 140–160 kmph and heavy rainfall, many lives were lost and several injured. Trees were uprooted, houses destroyed, and electricity and telephone lines were brought down. Thousands of both kuccha (non-concrete) and old pucca (concrete) houses were badly damaged.
The cyclone had a huge impact on villagers, especially daily wage workers already struggling from the nationwide lockdown. Many lost the tin or mud-tile roofs of their homes. Villages had no electricity for 15 days, and waterlogging raised risks of infectious diseases.
Recognising the urgent need, Ambuja Cement Foundation committed support to affected communities.
Awareness
Prior to the cyclone, Ambuja Foundation sent caution messages to farmers.
Relief Work post Cyclone
After the cyclone, Ambuja Foundation distributed 500 tarpaulin sheets and 500 bamboos to villagers whose temporary roofs were blown away, providing shelter against the weather.
Due to power cuts, 100 solar lights and 400 candles with matchboxes were distributed, protecting villagers from snakes and other dangers during waterlogging.
500 mattresses were distributed to families whose homes were destroyed. 10 bags of bleaching powder were sprinkled to prevent disease. Ambuja Foundation also offered counselling to help villagers recover from trauma.
Distribution of Ration
Many daily wage families had no food or money. Ambuja Foundation distributed 1,000 kg of rice and 500 kg of potatoes to 200 poor families in two nearby Gram Panchayats.
Support to the Farmers Community
The cyclone destroyed agricultural structures like scaffolding, poly houses, and beetle leaf vines. Fields were waterlogged, fish ponds overflowed, and stored paddy was lost.
Ambuja Foundation, with NABARD, supported 150 farmers with Rs. 700 each to repair scaffolding. 51 Self Help Group members received Rs. 2,000 each to repair goat and poultry sheds. Coordination with Horticulture Department is ongoing for further support.
Way Forward
The cyclone deeply affected farmers’ morale, making them hesitant to invest again. Ambuja Foundation continues to counsel and support them, helping rebuild not just livelihoods, but confidence and hope in the community.
