In the summer of 2007, the severe floods affected over ten million people in the Uttar Pradesh and Bihair regions in northern India. Malteser International’s programme, financed by the European Commission, is primarily aimed at the most vulnerable people, such as single mothers and their children and the Dalits, the so-called “untouchables”.

In particular, 60 homesteads destroyed by the floods were rebuilt using flood preparation measures. This also means raising hand pumps above the level of floods, ensuring access to safe drinking water in emergencies.

The population is also supported by microcredit schemes. The project has established a “work fund”, that is payment in cash for the affected families if they personally help to reconstruct their homes and villages.

Finally, five task forces trained in evacuation and rescue have been set up and provided with 35 boats and other equipment necessary for relief operations.