Eyewitness from Kakhovka’s ground zero: Displaced Ukrainians face ongoing conflict and toxic water

In the wake of the Kakhovka Dam destruction, World Vision’s partner Save Ukraine emerges as a beacon of hope, providing aid and support to the most vulnerable. The team assists those affected by the devastating tragedy, offering a lifeline amidst the chaos.

“Local people didn’t expect they would suffer from the flooding. People were waiting for harvest, but it’s destroyed now. The water washed away everything in its path. It turned out that it could be worse”, shares Dmytro Lisovskyi, who is a journalist supporting World Vision’s partner organization Save Ukraine.

The following day after the Kakhovka Dam destruction Dmytro arrived in Kherson City together with his team. He recalls that it was full of volunteers, humanitarians and rescuers who came to evacuate and support people after a tragedy.  

According to the OCHA report, at least 37 towns and villages are fully or particularly flooded. More than 16,000 people are in huge demand of drinking water, food, hygiene kits, and psychosocial support.

“Working tirelessly, our team traveled through the micro-districts of Kherson, offering evacuation services to those in need. Unfortunately, the powerful current of water complicated the evacuation process", explains Dmytro", he adds.

"It was also difficult to maneuver between electric poles, branches, and houses. The water reached two and sometimes three floors", he says.

The evacuation efforts were met with shock and disbelief from the affected individuals who were yet to comprehend the full extent of the disaster and the imminent danger they faced as Save Ukraine's team tried to convince locals.

At the same time, they were providing humanitarian aid such as drinking fresh water, pumps, gas cylinders, and hygiene kits. Additionally, people in need could receive psychological support from the team. 

I feel that I am in the right place at the right time, making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by the crisis.

"We conduct therapy with people and try to assure them that they won’t be left alone. Families are going to return to their homes as soon as the water recedes, and mines are removed”, says Dmytro.

Unfortunately, the southern part of Ukraine remains dangerous not only due to the flooding but also constant shelling. During one of the evacuation missions, Dmytro's team came under fire. Despite the challenges, they pressed on, serving the communities in Kherson, Komyshany, Priozerny, and Antonivka.

One of the most significant ongoing challenges in the region is the compromised water quality. Contaminated with toxins and chemicals, the water poses a serious threat to all living beings. Thus, the authorities prohibited the use of water for any needs.

“The water washed away crops and infrastructure, compounding the already dire situation. For instance, I still have spots of redness on my skin that have not gone away. Water is very toxic both for the body and health,” warns Dmytro.

Reflecting on his experiences, Dmytro expressed a sense of purpose and fulfillment, particularly in hot spots where he witnesses the realities of war and the resilience of the people.

“I feel that I am in the right place at the right time, making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by the crisis,” he says.

Dmytro and his dedicated team remain on the frontlines, assisting locals who are suffering from the flooding and the ongoing conflict.  They play a vital role in providing support to those who had experienced immense loss and upheaval.

Recognizing the long-term impact of the Kakhovka Dam destruction, World Vision and its implementation partner Save Ukraine reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the people in need within the region.

At present, World Vision’s assistance through partners Ukraine Humanitarian Fund (UHF), Save Ukraine, Health Right and NGO Girls included essential relief goods that cover over 18,000 people.

World Vision's emergency efforts are made possible with support from Aktion Deutschland Hilft (ADH), USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), ACTED Ukraine, the Ukraine Response Consortium and World Vision’s Small Grants Mechanisms.

Related story: Volunteer shows up to help fellow Ukrainians in need

Story by Oleksandra Shapkina I Photos by Save Ukraine Team