TIMELY UAE SUPPORT FOR KERALA FLOOD VICTIMS

With the south Indian state of Kerala immersed in sorrow following the worst floods in a century that has killed hundreds and displaced thousands, the UAE has once again displayed its benevolence by rendering timely help and proving that a friend in need is a friend indeed. President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan swiftly instructed the formation of a national emergency committee to provide relief assistance to people affected by the flash floods in Kerala.

“The people of Kerala have always been and are still part of our success story in the UAE. We have a special responsibility to help and support those affected, especially during this holy and blessed days,” tweeted His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai,

The UAE leaders’ instructions stressed the importance of mobilising national efforts of UAE humanitarian actors to coordinate emergency relief operations to help the victims in a way that reflects the spirit of the historic friendship that binds the people of the UAE and India and directly supports the Indian government’s efforts to miminise the devastating impact of the floods on the population.

A total of Dhs10 million had been collected by the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation through Uae-based Indian tycoons and businesses for the flood victims merely a few hours after the Foundation launched its relief campaign.

The UAE and Kerala have a special bond. The UAE has around three million Indians living and working here, of whom a majority are from the state of Kerala.

With a view to help the people in distress, the UAE has also created an emergency hotline for Keralites who have family in or travelling to Kerala.

Kerala residents have gone through the worst of times in the recent days. Many people have lost virtually everything they had as the swollen rivers washed away several homes and left a trail of destruction. Kerala authorities should spare no efforts when it comes to rehabilitation. All towns and cities should be cleaned on a war footing.

The UAE’S swift response to the disaster deserves all praise. It should not be forgotten that right since its establishment, the UAE has been contributing tremendously to international sustainable development efforts and humanitarian response to global crises and disasters.

The nation’s commitment to philanthropy is total and inspirational. The timely assistance to Kerala proves that once again.