FB memories reminds me of this ..

This blog is about the meeting I organised in August of 2017 (as I recollected from Facebook memory section)

Acknowledging the Heroes of the 2017 Gujarat Floods: A Tribute to Compassion and Resilience

The monsoon of 2017 was a time of immense challenge for Gujarat. While Ahmedabad city itself experienced heavy rainfall, the true devastation was felt in the northern districts, with Banaskantha being one of the hardest hit. The overflowing Banas River and relentless downpours caused widespread flooding, submerging villages, damaging infrastructure, and displacing thousands. The scale of the disaster was immense, requiring a massive response from government agencies and citizens alike.

In the face of such a crisis, the true spirit of humanity shone through. Countless individuals and organizations, including many from Ahmedabad, rose to the occasion. They mobilized to provide relief, rescue the stranded, and offer essential support to the flood-affected communities. It was a remarkable display of courage and solidarity that deserved to be recognized.

Recognizing this, I felt it was essential to organize a special event to honour these selfless individuals and groups. It was my belief that a gesture of gratitude would not only acknowledge their hard work but also inspire others to contribute to our community. I was honored when the Honorable Mayor of Ahmedabad agreed to be a part of this meeting. His positive response underscored the city’s commitment to recognizing the noble work of its citizens.

The event brought together over 25 NGOs and a large number of dedicated students who were at the forefront of the relief operations. The air was filled with a sense of shared purpose and accomplishment.

Each person in the room had played a critical role, whether it was through distributing food and water in submerged villages, setting up medical camps, or helping to rebuild lives.

The Mayor’s presence was the highlight of the gathering. He addressed all the attendees with immense gratitude, praising their unwavering efforts and resilience. He spoke of how their actions reflected the best of our city and expressed his happiness to be there to personally thank them. His words were a powerful source of encouragement, validating the sacrifices they had made.

This gathering was more than just an event; it was a testament to the powerful bond that connects our communities, especially in times of crisis. The unity and compassion on display were truly inspiring. Their actions during the 2017 floods remind us that even in the face of great adversity, the human spirit, when united by empathy and a shared sense of responsibility, can overcome anything.

Vishal.