The author had helped raise funds for medical relief and the construction of houses (Padang and Yogyakarta Merapi) for the disasters in Aceh tsunami (Dec 2004), Yogyakarta earthquake and Pangandaran tsunami (May and July 2006 respectively), Bangladesh Cyclone Sidr (Nov 2007), Myanmar Cyclone Nargis (May 2008), Padang earthquake (Sept 2009), Yogyakarta Merapi volcanic eruption (Oct 2010) and Kelantan Flood (2015).
1) Rescue (first 72 – 96 hours).
This is a government-to-government initiative. The essence is speed as red tape may cost lives. Usually, foreign rescue teams will and should start arriving within the first 24 hours.
NGOs cannot maintain these highly trained and disciplined search and rescue crews with special equipment using listening and imaging devices. They will also come with K-9 units. These are dogs to sniff out the trapped and still alive victims.
When the rescue phase is over, different search and rescue crews will pack up and leave.
2) Relief and Recovery.
Immediate needs after the disaster and till the next few months, depending on the situation. Big NGOs and foreign governments fly in relief supplies from dedicated warehouses in strategic locations with medical, nursing and other technical and engineering personnel.
- Medical relief for the injured. Different stations for various severity of physical injuries
- Logistical issues need to be solved to mobilise, store and move supplies
- Tents, clothing, blankets, food and water for the immediate physical needs of those who have lost their houses, belongings, and livelihoods. The needs of the dead must also to efficiently managed and with dignity. Body bags are readily available to prevent diseases
- Generators to power machines and engines for critical work
- Heavy equipment for removal of debris and preparation for reconstruction
- Spraying of disinfectant and sanitation to prevent diseases after the rescue phase is over
3) Reconstruction and Rebuilding – ongoing for up to 2 years or even more.
- The reconstructing homes, community areas and physical infrastructure
- The rebuilding of livelihood lost and capacity by replacing boats for fishermen, seeds for farmers, micro-business and credit, etc
- The rebuilding of livelihood lost and capacity by replacing boats for fishermen, seeds for farmers, micro-business and credit, etc
- The rebuilding lives physically, emotionally and spiritually
