Mumbai: Over 50 volunteers from St Jude Church, Malad (East) and Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Orlem, Malad (West) provided food, water and basic supplies to those affected in the wall collapse incident on Tuesday at Pimpripada area, Malad (East). Hutments of around 60 to 70 families were destroyed due to the wall collapse caused due to the pressure of heavy rainfall. Volunteers provided food packets, water bottles and blankets in the afternoon to all those who were affected and stranded due to the incident. Also, utensils and first-aid were given to them as there was loss of property. Volunteers from nearby areas, locals and parishioners of neighbouring churches circulated messages on WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter to come out and help.
Fr Warner D'Souza, parish priest of St Jude, Malad initiated this aid as he was alerted about this incident in the morning. D'Souza said, “We immediately rushed to the spot when we were informed about this incident. Along with the help of volunteers, we distributed food packets, water bottles and blankets to those affected. The area is right behind our church and we urged people to help those in need.” D'Souza explained there are a large number of people who are affected and they need help in all kinds. D'Souza said, “ When we reached the spot, there were a lot of bystanders and we could not distinguish who was in dire need. We provided them lunch and dinner.
We are working on providing cash, utensils and other basic necessities. We appreciate those who have helped.” Volunteers claimed it was a catastrophic scenario as the area is an overcrowded vicinity with many slum settlements. Jubin Thomas, a volunteer, said, “It was sad and scary to see so many people crying and in need of immediate relief. We provided raincoats, slippers, clothes, flashlights and plastic sheets as residents have lost their homes.” Anyone who wants to help or provide aid can contact @padrewarner on Twitter.
- Ronald Rodrigues
