The humanitarian crisis in Manipur has forced thousands of people to leave their homes and seek shelter in relief centres. In Churachandpur District, several philanthropic organisations, community groups and volunteers have come forward to provide shelter, food, clothing and other basic necessities to displaced families.

Considering the difficulties faced by internally displaced persons (IDPs), Community Development Society (CDS) approached UNICEF for assistance in providing safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene facilities at relief centres. With support from UNICEF, CDS undertook Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) interventions at various relief centres in Churachandpur District.

The activities mainly focused on improving access to safe drinking water, sanitation facilities and personal hygiene, particularly for women and children. CDS also conducted water quality testing at different relief centres to check the safety of drinking water. Water samples found to be unsafe were reported to the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) for necessary action.

Apart from the WASH intervention, CDS, distributed 1000 health and hygiene kits to displaced families at various relief camps within Churachandpur Manipur. Each kit contained toothpaste, toothbrushes, combs, nail cutters, soap, detergent powder, antiseptic solution, a bucket, a mug and oral rehydration salts (ORS).

CDS also distributed dignity kits to women and warm clothing to children staying in relief centres. These items were provided to help displaced families meet some of their daily needs during their stay at the camps.

With support from UNICEF and cooperation from local organisations and volunteers, CDS has been able to assist displaced families in improving their access to water, sanitation and basic hygiene facilities. CDS continues to extend humanitarian assistance to families affected by the crisis in Churachandpur District.