Surujita is Rebuilding More than a Home After the Assam Floods

Surujita and her mother, Niroda, had built their life around several small but dependable sources of livelihood. She gave tuition to school-going children. Niroda cared for poultry, sold eggs and contributed through weaving.

The family also cultivated paddy on two bighas of agricultural land. Since Surujita lost her father in 2023, the two-member household has depended on these sources of income to manage their everyday needs.

The flood changed that.

Surajitamoni recalls:

“During the flood around 19 July, our house collapsed and the entire granary was washed away. We could not save any of our paddy. Our plough, gas cylinder, beds, chairs and tables were also destroyed or carried away by the water. All our ducks and chickens were lost too. Everything was swept away.

My books and study materials were also affected. Many people have generously come forward to help us replace them. But we have still not been able to rebuild our house properly. At present, we are living under temporary tin sheets and bamboo walls.”

Still working towards recovery

Surujita has continued giving tuition, but she now has fewer students. Many families in the community are themselves recovering financially from the flood.

Despite the reduction in income, she continues to teach and contribute towards the family's daily expenses.

With help from community members, part of the house has been repaired. Bamboo walls have also been put up around the habitation area, allowing the family to return home.

The shelter, however, still requires further repair and strengthening.

The family also needs safer sanitation and WASH facilities and has expressed concerns about safety from wild animals around the damaged shelter.

Indicative Recovery Requirement

Based on an initial indicative assessment, Surujita's recovery requirement could be around ₹1,40,000. Around ₹70,000 is indicated for rebuilding a permanent house, durable rebuild. A further ₹20,000 is indicated for replacing the domestic animals lost, based on a typical small mixed holding for the area, to be confirmed through field verification. ₹20,000 is set aside for household utensils and essential items, and ₹30,000 for continued sanitation and drinking water support during the recovery period.

Note: Recovery requirements and costs are indicative and subject to field and technical verification. Support will be prioritised according to assessed household needs.

Together, Let's Help Surujita Rebuild

A flood can change a family's everyday life in a matter of hours. Recovery begins with restoring the essentials that help families live safely, rebuild their livelihoods and move forward.

Your contribution can support Surujita and her family as they strengthen their home, restore productive assets and regain access to essential water and sanitation facilities.

DONATE NOW

Your contribution will support SEEDS' flood response and recovery efforts for affected families based on assessed needs.