Houston: The deadly Hurricane Harvey that lashed its way across south and southeast US brought with it disastrous flooding and emergency evacuations, as a reservoir west of downtown Houston spilled over for the first time in its history. Storm clouds continued to pour resulting in irreparable flood situaton. Officials said the death toll in Texas reached at least 10 people, but the numbers are set to rise.
Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo said officers in the city have rescued over 3500 people so amid Harvey's flooding and devastation. Rains continue to pound and the National Weather Service reported that over 42 inches of rain has already fallen in the region . Several parts of Louisana have also seen over a foot of rain, and flash flood warnings and watched were in effect for the Lake Charles. One of he two massive stormwater reservoirs in Houston began to spill over despite US Army Corps of Engineers efforts to release water as water levels in the reservoirs swelled to record levels.
Department of Labor has announced an initial $10 million grant to help with cleanup efforts in Texas. President Donald Trump declared “emergency conditions” in Louisiana, shortly after federal authorities warned that the hurricane could force over 30,000 people from their homes. Thousands of people are currently housed in shelters. The George R. Brown Convention Center has taken in 9200 people, said regional disaster officer for the Red Cross, Charles Maltbie.
Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj informed that nearly 200 Indian students of Houston University are stranded and surrounded by “neck-deep” water in the region. She said efforts were being made to supply these students with food and other basic amenities but the US Coast Guard declined permission as boats were required for services in rescue operations. Swaraj also informed that operations for rescuing stranded Indian students were being conducted under Indian Consular General, Anupam Ray. She also stated that Indian students Shalini and Nikhil Bhatia, are in the ICU and efforts were being made to ensure their relatives reach them.
Indian community members have also contributed in rescue efforts, with Indian restaurants distributing food, Indian businesses throwing open their premises to provide accommodation, and Indian doctors volunteering medical services. The community is also offering logistical and other help boost efforts along with the City of Houston's emergency operations centre.
