US envoy recalls Katrina help, gives relief to Leh victims

LEH - Reciprocating India’s help in the wake of devastation wrought in New Orleans, US, by Hurricane Katrina five years ago, US ambassador Timothy J. Roemer Monday visited Leh and distributed relief supplies worth Rs.2.3 million (over $50,000) to the victims of cloudburst.

The US envoy distributed relief supplies, including blankets and winter supplies, to 400 rural families affected by last month’s devastating floods. The relief funds were given by the American people through the US government.

“I am personally here today to meet with these families, see first-hand the difficulties and challenges caused by the flash floods,” Roemer told survivors of the floods here.

“I want to offer reassurance that the government and people of the US will extend our goodwill and assistance wherever we can as we note the grievous damage to India’s communities,” he said.

“As India provided its generosity to us in the US after the destruction of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, I am here in Leh to make a donation to assist the families most affected by this tragedy,” he said.

India had contributed $5 million to the American Red Cross for relief activities in those areas affected by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. New Delhi had offered large water purification systems, essential medicines and blankets to the victims.

The envoy also visited the Leh Police Headquarters and personally thanked the local police officials for their dedication and service to the community and to US citizens affected during the crisis.