Call for all to assist victims

THE lead story “Hope washes away” (POST, April 13-17) has left many people weeping over the number of people who died in the floods. This Easter was a time of deep sorrow.

Some families were swallowed by sand banks, and collapsing walls and houses were washed away. It was heart-warming to see communities stand together in times of need.

Community activists, relief organisations and religious institutions have rallied to help those hardest hit.

It was sad to see the river next to the Hindu temple in Chatsworth burst its banks, leading to the religious building being submerged in water.

Sadly, this happens every time there is a flood. What got people talking is that in spite of so much water in the temple, the idols were left intact. This is a wake-up call. A disaster management plan must be put in place in all areas.

To all communities, please help by providing humanitarian aid.

This can be done by organising blankets, warm food and other relevant items. To those who don't help and turn a blind eye, remember: “To eat alone what one has hoarded is worse than begging”.