On 16 February 2011, a military ammunition depot in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city, blew up overnight in a series of explosions that leveled homes, killed over 25 people and wounded about more than 5,000 helpless civilians. Thousands ran for their lives, and more than 200 children have been unable to find their parents.
Under such harsh circumstances, the volunteers of BAPS in Dar Es Salaam assisted the Red Cross Department and the Tanzania Police Force to help these civilians.
Essential household items were distributed to residents affected by the explosions. In addition, the volunteers helped to reduce the psychological and emotional stress of the affected residents by offering appropriate support and prayers.
The volunteers also helped at the Uhuru National Stadium by supporting the Red Cross Tanzania and the Tanzania Police Force, and providing victims with food packages, drinking water and milk. They also assisted in rejoining parents and children who had been separated during this incident.
BAPS volunteers also helped at the Amana Government Hospital and Tameke Government Hospital, where the injured victims were being treated. They provided the injured with milk, bread, drinking water, juice, biscuits and snacks.
The Vice President of Tanzania, Dr. Mohammed Ghalib Bilal, as well as doctors, nurses and staff of both hospitals were delighted with the timely services performed by BAPS and expressed their appreciation.