The total food insecure population may increase as a result of the earthquake if the public distribution system is not expanded. The destruction of mills, food warehouses and irrigation structures, as well as a disruption of harvesting of crops - including wheat, sorghum, and cotton, and food production remain an overall food security concern. The drought affected 2.9 million residents of Gujarat state in 2000. At the onset of the disaster, the water supply was a concern, but through a combination of rapid repairs to piped water distribution systems, as well as emergency relief measures such as tankering of water, roadside water distribution points, generators to operate pump wells, and the use of water purification systems, the water sector needs in the affected areas have been met adequately. The water purification systems will remain in India for future humanitarian responses to localized disasters.
Sanitation remains a primary concern, particularly in urban areas and relief camps.
The GOI and relief organizations are constructing latrines, providing public sanitation training, and distributing hygiene packs, and water treatment interventions. No major epidemics have occurred, although some expected cases of diarrhea and acute respiratory infection have been noted. The majority of injuries reported are orthopedic in nature. Priority health needs remain, including the restoration of rehabilitative and reconstruction supplies and specialists. On February 27, the GOI announced its formal approval of a resettlement and reconstruction project for the victims of the earthquake rendered homeless.