Table 1 Summary of findings from interviews with cyclone survivors and relief workers:
Domain | Concern |
|---|---|
Basic necessities | - Survivors lacked clean water and food - Distance and cost of obtaining and transporting were challenges that had to be met, often at the sacrifice of meeting other needs - Shelters and new homes were inadequate; many residents were still homeless or in temporary housing - Concerned with the stability and protection provided by the new structures |
Health | - Diarrhea and illnesses related to water shortages persisted - Noted psychological disorders associated with traumatic event of the storm and loss - Basic health services remained insufficient (a reality even before the cyclone) |
Government interference (direct and indirect) | - Check-points were in place along routes into the Delta during the early phases of response - "Fees" were charged to access disaster areas - Travel restrictions occurred - Aid workers were extensively monitored - Relief workers were required to give aid directly to the authorities - Relief and reconstruction materials were misappropriated |
Security Concerns | - Intimidation, abuse, and fear of arrest of relief workers - Security concerns further obstructed the delivery of aid to cyclone victims |
Information | - Challenges and security concerns were associated with collecting information - Needs assessments and coordination of relief activities particularly were hampered by inability to independently collect data and communicate - Information released through the state-controlled media outlets minimized the extent of the disaster and needs of the victims |