Indian Air Force Intensifies Flood Relief Efforts in Northern Punjab and Jammu, Over 215 Rescued.
New Delhi:
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has escalated its flood relief operations across Northern India, focusing on the critically affected regions of Jammu and Punjab. Since 27 August, IAF helicopters and transport aircraft have been working round the clock to rescue stranded civilians and deliver vital relief materials in the aftermath of severe flooding.
Ongoing Air Operations
In the past three days, Mi-17 and Chinook helicopters have carried out more than 55 sorties to extract trapped civilians, including personnel from the Indian Army and Border Security Force (BSF), from inundated areas in Dera Baba Nanak, Pathankot, and Akhnoor sectors. Additionally, transport aircraft, including the C-130, have been deployed to ensure rapid movement of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams into the flood-hit regions.
Through these operations, the IAF has successfully rescued 215 individuals and delivered over 7,300 kgs of essential supplies, including food, water, and medical aid.
Focus on Northern Punjab
Northern Punjab remains the epicenter of the ongoing crisis, with continuous high water levels severely hampering surface connectivity. In response, the IAF has strategically deployed air assets to maximize coverage and support relief efforts across this region, ensuring that both civilians and emergency personnel can be reached swiftly.
Coordination with Other Agencies
The IAF is working in close coordination with multiple agencies, including the Indian Army, BSF, NDRF, and local administration, to streamline the evacuation process and ensure timely distribution of supplies to the affected areas.
IAF’s Commitment to Relief Operations
Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the Indian Air Force has assured continued support for as long as necessary. “We remain fully dedicated to ensuring the safety of our citizens in distress and will continue to deploy our resources and personnel to assist in this ongoing crisis,” stated an IAF spokesperson.
With surface transportation still hindered in many areas, the IAF’s air operations play a critical role in the ongoing flood relief efforts in the region, providing essential services and saving lives in one of the worst flood crises to hit the region in recent years.
