How tech startups are assisting victims in flood-ravaged Chennai

Paytm, Practo, Ola and several new-age startups are playing a key role in helping the residents of flood-ravaged Chennai.

While some startups are providing vital information on essential medical services, others are offering free services around transportation, connectivity and meals.

Many tech firms have mobilised teams from Bangalore and other cities to provide humanitarian relief in Chennai.

Chennai, better known as India's SaaS capital, has received abnormally high rain, turning the city into an island. Over 250 people have died in the deluge.

Here's a look at how startups are helping those stranded in Chennai:

Zomato The restaurant listing and food delivery startup is inviting residents to donate a meal using its platform. For every meal donated, Zomato would add a free meal of its own.

Lookup Lookup, a messaging app that connects local merchants with customers, has partnered with youth volunteer NGO Bhumi. Several volunteers of Bhumi are collecting clothes and other material for the victims, it said in a press statement.

Paytm Mobile payment and recharge platform Paytm is offering free recharge facility. Residents can call on18001030033 and share the mobile number that they want to get topped-up. Paytm will facilitate free recharge of Rs 30, it said.

Practo Practo, a provider of web-based clinical management software and doctor listings, has compiled a list of available doctors and operational hospitals in Chennai. It's updating the list every hour.

Uber The cab-hailing app is giving free rides to the people of the city till tomorrow.

Ola Ols is providing its drivers with essential food items and emergency lanterns. It had launched Ola Boats last month to help residents navigate the rising waters.

UrbanClap In a bid to prevent the outbreak of an epidemic, online marketplace for local services UrbanClamp has set up pest control camps at three locations in the city.