Rebuilding lives, homes vital

Getting a house on its back is a huge challenge on many fronts, particularly in getting the skilled labourers, many of whom have been affected by the rains. Labour charges for minimal work like checking electrical appliances and changing fabric of sofa sets damaged by rain have sky-rocketed. The rate charged by skilled workers have doubled to Rs 500 from the earlier fee of Rs 250, say residents.

Meanwhile, experts say there are a few do’s and don’t’s one has to follow in getting a house back into shape. Scraping the residual mud off the floor and walls is the first task. Switching electrical appliances should be done only after the wet walls are entirely dry. 

To be safe from water-borne diseases like gastroenteritis, jaundice, typhoid, cholera and diarrhoea which are common post-rains, doctors advise boiling of drinking water and use of hand sanitisers.

To prevent further damage to already damaged cars should be towed to a garage, the engine oil drained and the oil and air filters replaced. Then drain engine oil again, pour fresh oil and repeat the process. Drain engine oil again, pour fresh oil, clean the plugs. Remove and clean the starter and refit. Drain engine oil again, fill with fresh oil and then start and run the engine for 2 minutes. This costs around Rs.7000 for ordinary cars, but the cost for high end vehicles which need similar services will be more.