Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh: (By Hannah Chowdhry) A catastrophic series of floods hit Vijayawada following the development of a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal between August 26th and 28th, 2024. This system intensified into a cyclone, leading to heavy rainfall across the states of Telangana and Karnataka, which serve as the catchment areas for the Krishna River and its tributaries. Irrigation and power projects in both states were overwhelmed, forcing authorities to release excess water from reservoirs, further exacerbating the flooding downstream.

Adding to the crisis, Vijayawada received 26 cm of rainfall in just a few hours—a record-breaking event for the past 60 years. The Krishna River, swollen by rain and floodwaters from neighboring states, overflowed into the city. The Budameru tributary, which passes through Vijayawada, breached in several places, flooding the city with water as deep as 20 feet in some areas. Entire neighborhoods, including multi-story buildings, were submerged, leaving many residents stranded for days in floodwaters filled with silt and debris.

The floodwaters affected over 1 million (10.63 lakh) people, with 50% of Vijayawada submerged. Even the state’s capital city was inundated for five days, and the Chief Minister himself was forced to vacate his residence.

The devastation included widespread destruction of household items such as beds, electronics, and furniture, particularly in poorer neighborhoods near the Krishna River and Budameru tributary. Initial damage estimates reach a staggering Rs. 20,000 crores. Agricultural lands adjacent to the tributaries also suffered, with approximately 200,000 hectares of crops, including rice, maize, bananas, and vegetables, completely destroyed.

Tragically, 30 people lost their lives, many swept away in floodwaters or trapped in their homes due to the severe conditions. Decomposing bodies were left for days without proper burial or refrigeration, further compounding the misery. Fishermen along the Bay of Bengal and laborers in Vijayawada also faced immense economic losses, with daily wages lost for over a week.

During the worst of the flooding, thousands were evacuated to relief centers set up in schools, colleges, and community halls. Essential supplies such as food and water were provided by the state government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and local churches.

On September 19, 2024, the British Asian Christian Association (BACA), based in the UK,  in partnership with the Churches Reconstruction Revival and Development Trust, launched an aid initiative to support the flood victims. Distributions included cotton blankets, plastic mats, school bags, stationery, and Holy Bibles. Aid was provided to Christian and Hindu communities alike, focusing on those most in need.

Despite ongoing relief efforts, the needs in Vijayawada remain vast. Many residents have lost their homes and are living in temporary shelters or under makeshift roofs made of bamboo and plastic sheets. Basic necessities like clothing, bedding, and household items have been completely destroyed. For some, even rebuilding their homes is an insurmountable challenge without external help.

We appeal to compassionate individuals and organizations to pray and generously contribute to the ongoing relief and rehabilitation of flood victims in Vijayawada. Every donation made (here) makes a difference in helping these communities recover and rebuild their lives.  

Juliet Chowdhry, Trustee for British Asian Christian Association, said:

“Families affected by this disaster are facing unimaginable hardship. Many cannot return to homes that have been partially or completely destroyed, posing serious health risks. Children continue to attend school despite living in overcrowded temporary shelters, which is a challenge for parents, but at least it offers the children some respite and the support of their peers.

The amount of aid reaching these families, while providing some comfort in their temporary accommodations, is far from sufficient to get them back into safe, livable homes. The scale of the damage requires a much more robust response, and without significant additional support, these families will continue to suffer. We urgently need more resources to help them rebuild their lives and restore a sense of normalcy.”