DHARMAPURI: The Chennai flood once again proved that in calamitous times, people rush to help overcoming barriers of religion, caste and language. People from all over the world are extending their support to the flood-affected victims in Chennai through the social media.
Social media activists across the state are helping to bridge the communication gap between the victims and the rescue operation teams. Speaking to Express, coordinator of Nilal Sevai Amaippu, a Dharmapuri-based NGO, Suresh says, “Several hashtags have been created including #ChennaiRainHelp and #ChennaiFlood. Some victims who were stranded in the rains and had internet accessibility posted information seeking help with this hashtag. Some others who were capable of providing shelter and food also posted information in the social media using this hash tag.” The team has identified some donors and has shifted some people who were stranded in the Adyar area to the donor’s place. “Social media has certain limitations. We are able to reach only those who are already safe or have access to the internet. Only they can avail help through social media,” he adds. Maximum number of requests for help has been from the Mudichoor area, say the team members.
Popular bloggers including activist Ra Sindhan and poet Leena Manimekalai have offered help to the victims by giving food and shelter. They have also collected information about people who were stranded and passed the information on to the rescue camps.
To reach out to those who might not have internet connectivity due to low balance, some people used the social media to offer help with recharging people’s prepaid mobile numbers. Selva Prabhu, a physician, posted a message on Facebook saying, “People who are affected by Chennai rains and need their mobile number to be recharged, please inbox the number.”