We gave adequate awareness/training programs to school going children, youths, women on various natural disasters, man-made disasters, how to tackle the situation, escape mechanisms to safe guard themselves and others, move to safe places, first aid techniques, fire safety techniques, evacuation methods. ELCA ATSWA Rescue Team of 60 members was formed from these trainees to be in place during disasters. It had both gender representations; it was registered under local police station, fire safety department and state disaster management team.

Impacts created so far

The following are imparted with knowledge on disasters, escape mechanism, rescue management, first aid techniques, live saving methods, evacuation methods, leading people to safe shelters.

1. • 908 village people

• • 88 community leaders

• • 652 young adults (429 men, 223 women),

• • 962 adults (938 men, 1024 women) above 30 years

• • 15 Women Self Help Group (WSHGs) members (375 members)

• • 325 children (128 boys & 197 girls) aged between 5-14 years

• • 539 adolescents (321 boys, 218 girls) aged between 14-18

• • Indirectly reaching / helping 10213 members.

• • 5 ToT trainings done to select 58 Rescue Team members to be in place to help their own community during any named disaster.

• • 1250 cyclone affected families of 52 villages in and around Pazhaverkadu area were given dry ration, emergency health kits, hygienic kits, sanitary kits, mats, pillows, mosquito nets, cooking stove, etc.

• • 3850 families given dray ration along with 10 kg rice bags in Thiruvottiyur, Manali, Uthukottai blocks of Tiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu state.

Rescue Team

In a pioneering move, the “ATSWA Rescue Team” has emerged as a beacon of hope and solidarity for communities across ten villages. Comprising a formidable force of 35 valiant men and 15 trailblazing women, this diverse team stands ready to confront any disaster that threatens the well-being of our community.

It embodies the spirit of unity and inclusivity. When Cyclone “MICHAUNG” unleashed its fury upon our shores, these fearless individuals sprang into action. Armed with extensive training in disaster management, first aid, and various emergency response protocols, they fearlessly ventured into the heart of the storm. Their presence was not only welcomed but celebrated by local communities, leaders, law enforcement agencies, fire safety departments, and the state disaster management team.

Amidst the chaos of the cyclone, rescue team rose to the occasion, participating in vital rescue operations. For nine consecutive days, they operated boat services, navigating through inundated villages that had transformed into isolated islands. Their efforts included relocating residents to safety and facilitating their rehabilitation in designated centers. Furthermore, they played a pivotal role in the distribution of relief supplies and the implementation of rehabilitation initiatives. Their exemplary service has inspired a surge of volunteerism, with more individuals eager to join the ranks of the ATSWA Rescue Team.