A Village Faces the River
Tamkuhi, a village nestled in West Champaran, Bihar, lives closely with the Masan River—a water body that both sustains and threatens life. In recent months, continuous rainfall led the river to overflow, flooding homes and pushing families to take shelter on rooftops or with neighbours.
Access, mobility, and daily life were thrown off course. But in the face of disruption, the villagers chose to act.
Gathering to Reimagine Possibility
With the waters still high and risks looming, a community meeting was facilitated by the Goonj team under the Cloth for Work (CFW) initiative.
The initial discussion focused on one recurring question:
“Can we do something that lasts beyond this flood?”
Though unsure at first—especially given the scale of the challenge—the community collectively decided to widen the river’s mouth to divert flood waters in the future. 350 families contributed funds, enabling them to hire a JCB machine and procure bamboo and rope.
65 People, 3 Days, One Shared Intention
Over the next three days, 65 villagers—men and women—worked together to clear silt, debris, and widen the river channel.
Work in Progress - Clearing the Way, Together
“It wasn’t easy. But we knew waiting wouldn’t help. We had to try—together.” — Tamkuhi resident
This was not just a task—it was a people-led infrastructure solution, built on local resolve, pooled resources, and timely facilitation.
River Channel Widened - Redirecting Water, Protecting Life
When It Rained Again, the Water Took Another Way
Just days later, heavy rains returned. But this time, something was different:
- The water didn’t enter the village.
- Instead, it flowed through the newly widened river mouth—bypassing homes, fields, and everyday life.
The sense of relief was visible. So was the confidence.
Material Shared as a Gesture of Recognition
To acknowledge the time and effort of the community, Goonj rewarded them with CFW Family Kits containing essential items. These materials weren’t rewards—they were part of a larger fabric of participation, trust, and shared ownership.
“This is our own effort. These kits reminded us that someone listened, and walked with us.”
Kit Channelization - A Gesture of Shared Continuity
Be a Part of Change
Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
