Project Update: Auxiliary Project 2

Building work for shelters have begun. NLS's team, Handy Myanmar Youth, is currently working with locals (survivors of the cyclone) to build huts at one of the original village locations. These villagers are planning to return to their destroyed homes as monsoon approaches. They hope to catch the next rain which is vital for rice agriculture. In Burma, rice planting usually starts in June. It is merely two weeks away.

These men are simple farmers whose only wish is to pick up the pieces and move on. Female members of their families will remain in refugee camps until they are established, and can reclaim a little bit of their normal lives.

We have been informed by NLS that each tarpaulin roll is sufficient for about 1.5 huts. Each hut can house 10-12 people. In total, the rolls will go towards housing at least 75 people, and give them a sanctuary from which they can start afresh.

The team is working very hard amidst the terrible landscape of rotting corpses and heartbreaking stories. Some people have looted the corpses of their jewelry and valuables. Even among the refugees, there are those who were made well off by the Cyclone. It has been a very traumatising experience for the team, even as they try their best to help the survivors.

We hope to get some pictures in the next few days when one of the members return to Yangon. We ask for your patience, and understanding.

NLS's team would like to share this photo album:
http://picasaweb.google.com/lynnseck/Laputta
Warning: The album contains graphic images.