When the tsunami struck the shores of Tamil Nadu in December 2004, not only were entire families swept away, but so were livelihoods.
Rebuilding was an uphill task but the intervention of the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF) propelled grassroots-level initiatives across the affected areas.
Rehabilitation had to be operated ecologically, economically, and through knowledge and skill empowerment. Dr. V. Selvam of the foundation, for instance, underlined the importance of bio-shields. Speaking at an event organised by the foundation to commemorate the anniversary of the tsunami, he said, “Mangrove and non-mangrove plantations as well as sand dunes were critical in breaking the impact of the waves. Moreover, they also now provide a source of income, with a lot of crab farming done in these regions. We have gone to different coastal villages and stressed the need to conserve these forests.”
With men in the region becoming wary of the sea soon after the tsunami, MSSRF trained women and provided them technical skills in alternative occupations such as poultry farming and nursery development of mangroves. Dr. R Rengalakshmi emphasised the importance of a multi-stakeholder participatory diagnosis. “Agronomic rehabilitation through integrated farming systems is essential in coping with natural disasters like tsunamis or cyclones,” she said.
Nancy Anabel also pointed to the power of knowledge and timely information in empowering fishing communities. “The multi-lingual helpline we have set up has been extremely helpful in keeping a check on fishermen out at sea,” she noted.
Prof. P.C Kesavan said that integrating sustainable development with disaster management was vital to finding a sustainable solution. He said, “In addition to all the scientific innovation such as the early warning systems we should also go back to traditional knowledge. For example, in the Andamans, the Jarawas saved themselves by going uphill following hoards of birds.”
M. S. Swaminathan, emeritus chairman, MSSRF, in concluding the session, said, “Often, after a disaster, it is immediate relief that is focussed on. Attention must be paid to long-term rehabilitation too. It is scientific and technological checkmating rooted in traditional knowledge that the future must be charted.”
MSSRF also released their publication Beyond Tsunami: Activities undertaken at MSSRF in response to the serious Natural Disaster caused by Tsunami . The book, which highlights the efforts undertaken over the years, was officially released by R. Thandavan, vice-chancellor, Madras University, and the first copy was received by S. Balaji, principal chief conservator of forests (research and education).
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