When Floodwaters Receded, The Work Began
The people of Chakdahwa Jhandu Tola, a village in Ward 14 of Bagaha-2 block, West Champaran, Bihar, live close to the land—as farmers, as labourers, as resilient communities. But when the Gandak River flooded, rising from heavy rains in Nepal, over 800 families found their homes submerged and farmlands destroyed.
Crops were lost. Essential resources were swept away. Many families sought shelter in open fields—waiting not for aid, but for a way to reclaim their normalcy.
A Meeting of Minds and Intention
With flood waters receding, the Goonj team held a community meeting through the Cloth for Work (CFW) initiative. The focus quickly moved from what was lost to what could be rebuilt.
“This will bring positive change. If we work on our roads and platforms, people will contribute with heart,” said Raju Ram, a local resident.
The decision was clear: the roads, gathering spaces, and common platforms needed repair. And the people were ready.
Over 100 Hands, One Intention — Rebuilding Together
In just two days, over 100 people from the village came forward with tools, effort, and resolve. Together, they:
- Repaired damaged roads washed away by flood water
- Built a bandstand to serve as a shaded gathering space
- Restored the community haat (market shed)
- Cleaned public spaces for communal use and festivals
This wasn’t just construction—it was a collective effort of reclaiming space and continuity, led by the people who use it.
Before–During–After Visual Journey
Community Market (Haat) Repairs - From Broken Roofs to Shared Shelter
Material with Meaning
As a symbolic recognition of their efforts, Goonj channelised Family Kits to the participating households, which contained everyday essentials. For many, this timely channelisation added hope to the upcoming Dussehra festival.
“Now we’ll celebrate properly. No one else has stood with us like this,” said Seema Devi, a participant.
Voices from the Ground
“Goonj doesn’t just respond—it walks with us. In times of silence, they were the first to listen.” — Rajendra Prasad Singh, SSB Inspector
These are not testimonials. They are reflections of trust built through action.
Community Space Cleaning - Cleaning Spaces, Renewing Connection
Beyond Relief, Toward Everyday Resilience
Chakdahwa’s story isn’t just about one flood, one road, or one moment of requirment. It’s a reflection of how communities lead their own recovery when trust, tools, and listening are in place.
Road Repairs - A Road Back to School, Work, and Dignity
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..
