The Indian Air Force’s Western Air Command has stepped up with a big rescue effort in Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh after heavy rains triggered deadly landslides and floods. Their operations have saved hundreds of lives and provided vital aid to those stranded by the floods.
In Udhampur, one of the most affected areas, the IAF carried out a daring rescue by dropping 5.9 tonnes of food supplies using aircraft. This lifesaving effort gave hope to many families trapped in landslide-affected areas. The skies were busy with helicopters dropping food and rescue teams working tirelessly to help those in need.
In Himachal Pradesh, the IAF’s quick and brave actions saved 540 people in just 17 hours. Four helicopters and 35 crew members worked round the clock, day and night, to evacuate people to safe zones. This remarkable rescue drive shows the Indian Air Force’s strong commitment to disaster relief and saving lives.
Udhampur has faced huge challenges after heavy rains caused flash floods and landslides. Many roads, including the crucial Srinagar-Jammu Highway, are still blocked, leaving hundreds of trucks and vehicles stranded. Authorities managed to partially open the highway after a week-long closure, bringing some relief and enabling supplies to move.
Power outages have also hit the region, as landslides damaged transmission towers, cutting off electricity for many homes and businesses. Additionally, a government school building, a key bridge connecting parts of the region, and several houses were damaged or collapsed due to landslides.
The Indian military, along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), are working hard on relief efforts. Over the past three weeks, more than 170 lives have been lost in Jammu and Kashmir because of landslides, cloudbursts, and other weather-related disasters.
The Indian Air Force’s swift rescue operations have brought hope and relief to hundreds of families. Authorities have promised that they will keep working until roads are fully cleared and everyone stranded is safely rescued and rehabilitated.
This massive relief effort highlights the importance of disaster management and the relentless spirit of rescue teams working in challenging conditions to save lives.
