Gandhinagar, Gujarat
Sunday, 28th January 2001.

An Appeal

Gujarat hit by an earthquake measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale

The earthquake measuring 6.9 on Richter scale hit the western state of Gujarat in the morning of 26th January, 2001. The epicenter was about 20 kms. North-East of Bhuj, a central town in Kutch district of Gujarat. The spread of the quake covered large area covering entire Gujarat. The worst-hit is Bhuj, having a population of about 1,50,000. Almost entire town is destroyed. There is almost no house which is not damaged. It is feared that over 6,000 people are dead in the State and it is also feared that the ultimate figure of death in Gujarat may even cross five figures.

Ahmedabad is another major center affected because of this quake. More than 100 multi-storeyed buildings have either collapsed or damaged. Rajkot, Morbi, Surendranagar, Jamnagar are other places severely affected by the quake in Saurashtra region of Gujarat. Palanpur, Mehsana, Surat, etc. are other places affected by this quake in Gujarat.

This has been the most powerful quake to strike the nation since 1950. The official machinery has been geared up to carry out relief operations on a war-footing. Such a stupendous relief effort has received tremendous public response from NGOs and people. The most immediate concern is for search and rescue. After that, the focus will be on ensuring medical supplies, food and rehabilitation for the homeless.

International aid agencies have already started reaching Gujarat to supplement the State Government's efforts in rescue operations. Rescue teams from Switzerland, UK, Russia, Turkey, Germany, etc. have arrived in Gujarat. Many other countries have also offered men, material and financial assistance. The rescue operation is however, massive and the State Government appeals to all NRIs and NRGs and various other voluntary agencies to join in our efforts to cope with the devastating fall-out of such a nightmare. Your help is welcome in cash which can be sent in the name of "Chief Minister's Relief Fund", Revenue Department, Sachivalaya, Gandhinagar, Gujarat. All contributions are 100% tax exempt under Section 80-G of the Income Tax Act.

Please contact by e-mail:

mail@gujaratindia.com
indextb@ad1.vsnl.net.in or Fax: 91-79-3221297
nrg@gujaratpetro.com or Fax: 91-79-2854768

 

Hari Desai Chairman, NRG Foundation, Gujarat State (Mobile: 98250 49461)

Bimal Shah Minister of State (NRG, IT and Transport) Gujarat State

Keshubhai Patel Chief Minister Gujarat State INDIA

External Aid Co-ordination Cell Setup at N.R.G. Bhavan, Ahmedabad