An undersea volcano - Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai - erupted catastrophically, sending ash plumes 30 kilometres into the sky, triggering a series of tsunami waves across the Tongan archipelago and completely severing technological communications with the country's capital Nuku'alofa. Almost 300 houses were damaged and over 1500 people were left displaced.
The volcanic ash and saltwater inundation had contaminated Tonga's water system, leading to waterborne diseases such as cholera and diarrhea. Khalsa Aid Canada stepped in and funded the delivery of 23,000 water bottles to the Tonga National Emergency Management Office. This water was soon distributed to the people affected by this environmental disaster, easing the hardship of water shortages in the region.
One of Khalsa Aid's primary areas of focus is providing immediate relief during natural disasters and conflicts. When disasters like earthquakes, floods, or tsunamis strike, Khalsa Aid is often among the first organizations on the ground, distributing food, water, medical supplies, and shelter to affected populations.
Bottles Distributed
Litres Provided
This project supports the achievement of the following UN Sustainable Development Goals: