Forwarded to the portal by: Sudhirendar Sharma

Those activists, practitioners and journalists who have travelled in the Kosi River basin during 2008 (before the Kushaha breach), 2009 and 2010 have helped enhance our collective understanding on a manmade crises of gigantic proportions. Though not pre-planned, a unique fellowship on Kosi has indeed developed over these years. In their respective domains, each of the fellows have/are contributing to taking the key learnings across for better understanding on how our land, rivers and water ought to be managed (or not managed). The task, however, is far from finished.

On an average, a batch of ten fellows have travelled to the region during each `yatra'. Given the below average infrastructure and logistics facility for the travel (of about 10 days), an upper limit of around 10 fellows has been prescribed. It has gone on well thusfar with insightful and perspective writings emerging from each of the travels. The resources for each of the travel were raised from organisations and individuals who thought that the myths around recurring Kosi floods must be brought to light. During each travel, the fellows had the benefit of Dr Dinesh Mishra's presence and guidance.

Undoubtedly, the most knowledgeable on the subject of floods in the sub-continent, Dr Mishra has lent a helping hand in making this fellowship a great success. Early this year, in March 2010, a batch of women' journalists had travelled to the region. The articles and write ups they produced are distinct in their treatment of the subject. In keeping up with the three years practice, the next batch should travel to the region again in March 2011 - the most suitable time to travel in the basin. Some of us who have played supporting role in these travels are ready to lend a helping hand, provided there is support forthcoming for undertaking it yet again.

The next batch can focus on a challenging issue. Following the worst floods of 2008, a large tract of land has been sand-casted. The layers of sand are deep enough, scrapping the surface may not help remove it. Are there technologies or techniques that can help turn the disadvantageous situation into an advantage for the local people whose fertile land is buried beneath the sands? Are there alternate livelihood approaches that can be tried in such compelling conditions? These and much more, there are any number of sub-issues that have yet to be adequately tackled.

Through this communication, we are trying to reach out to those who might wish to support the fellowship. Please do forward this communication to potential supporters. Also, we would look forward to hearing from those who may have ideas/answers to the challenging issue raised above and would be willing to be part of the fellowship. All future communication regarding financial support and intent of participation on this subject may be directed to our colleague Mr Kavindra Pandey (kavindrapandey@gmail.com)

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Contact Detials:
Dr. Sudhirendar Sharma
7 Triveni
A6 Paschim Vihar
New Delhi 110063, India
Phone: +91-11-25265212
Mobile: +91-9868384744