Oxfam India’s humanitarian teams are assessing the damage caused by Cyclone Fani, worst cyclone India has witnessed in the last 20 years.

As per initial reports, nine people have died and 160 people have been injured in Odisha. Over 12 lakh people were evacuated from vulnerable districts to safer locations.

The 'extremely severe' cyclonic storm made a landfall yesterday in the eastern Indian state of Odisha and moved to West Bengal. Oxfam India teams on the ground are reporting extensive damage to homes, crops, power and telecom infrastructure. The situation has made it difficult to assess the full extent of damage in Odisha.

Post assessment, Oxfam India will respond immediately with clean water, hygiene, emergency food security and temporary shelter support.

“We are already beginning to focus on work that will help recover people’s livelihoods, provide clean water, prevent water borne diseases, and protect displaced people. Personal hygiene of women and girls in particular will also be our top priority. After full assessment of people’s needs we will work to rebuild and rehabilitate in the worst affected areas,” said Pankaj Anand, Director Programs & Advocacy at Oxfam India.

Oxfam India is coordinating with the government and working with local partners and other non-governmental organisations to ensure maximum support to affected people.

For media queries please contact Himanshi Matta, [email protected], 8860182310