By India Relief Team (Originally in English)
Record-breaking heat waves hit India from April to June 2016, with temperatures reaching the highest ever recorded in India at 51 degrees Celsius (123.8 degrees Fahrenheit) in the city of Phalodi, Rajasthan State. The immense heat, which affected at least 330 million people, resulted in more than 160 people losing their lives, with thousands of people and animals suffering from the severe temperatures.
Deeply concerned about all those affected, Supreme Master Ching Hai instructed our local Association members to carry out relief work. For six weeks starting in early June, two of our Association members from Phalodi, joined by another Association member from Mumbai, rendered aid. Our relief effort, funded by Master with INR 525,559 (US$7,856), included distributing desperately needed water to the local people.
At each of the 20 different locations in remote areas around Phalodi, and in neighboring areas up to 125 kilometers away, we set up a traditional Indian small hut. In the early morning and late afternoon, we purchased water from 30 to 40 kilometers away and filled up three to five earthen pots. We then hired local people to offer drinking water to the passersby from buses, trucks, and other forms of transportation on the roads in the areas most in need. We also served quick-hydrating, natural, sweet energy drinks to counter the effects of the heat wave and to help re-energize the people. In addition, we installed a water cooler at an animal hospital that is helping 800 cows suffering from various diseases.
Master’s generous contribution has brought coolness and comfort to the people in the heat of summer. We pray that the extreme weather conditions will soon be alleviated by more people choosing a compassionate, Earth-friendly vegan lifestyle.
Expenditures by The Supreme Master Ching Hai for Heatwave Relief Work in India
Description | Amount (INR) | Receipt |
---|---|---|
Water, earthen pots, fees to the local helpers, travel expenses of the relief team, printing banners and other expenses | 525,559 | A |
Total | INR 525,559 (US$7,856) |