ReliefWeb

INDIA

Rainfall and widespread flooding affected a number of areas in northeast India, predominantly in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh states. According to the Disaster Management Department, over two million people have been affected by the flooding and 97 people were killed. Displaced people are receiving assistance in 75 relief centres opened by the authorities. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) deployed 23 teams, using over 1,000 boats to evacuate people from the flooded areas.

With rainfall now decreasing, the state authorities in Bihar reported that the situation is under control and river levels are now starting to recede in the affected areas. UN agencies are liaising closely with the authorities and are providing technical assistance in support of flood response activities.

2 million people affected

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Mount Ulawun in West New Britain erupted on 1 October. Eruptions continued for several days, sending ash several kilometres in the air. Lava flowed up to 3km from the north-west side of the vent, but the lava flow did not cause any damage to life or property. On 7 October, the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory (RVO) lowered the alert level to Stage 2. Seven care centres, hosting around 6,200 people from previous eruptions, remain open in the area, providing food assistance to those displaced.

INDONESIA

Following a 6.5 magnitude earthquake in Maluku Province on 26 September, hundreds of aftershocks were recorded. These aftershocks, together with rumours on a potential tsunami, caused thousands of people to flee their homes and move to higher ground. The latest displacement figure is over 115,000, as of 1 October. On 2 October, the Maluku Province disaster response authority (BPBD) reported that 36 people were killed by the earthquake, with the Ministry of Health reporting over 1,000 people injured. More than 6,000 homes were reportedly damaged.
The emergency response is being led by the provincial and local governments, who declared an emergency response period until 9 October. Key needs include clothing, blankets, tents, lighting and medical supplies. BNPB released approx.
US$ 70,000 for the emergency response and have sent relief items. The ministries of Social Affairs and Health, along with the Indonesian Red Cross and Humanitarian Forum Indonesia have mobilized assistance in the affected areas. Efforts are now being made by the Government and community leaders to provide accurate and timely information on natural disasters to deter rumours.

36 people killed