Indian Army Deployed for Rescue Operations in Uttara Kannada After Major Landslides

The Indian Army has deployed forces to assist in rescue operations in Uttara Kannada after severe weather and landslides impacted National Highway 66. The rescue mission, slated for seven days, involves multiple teams working tirelessly to locate and assist trapped individuals.

In response to severe weather conditions and subsequent landslides in the Uttara Kannada district, the Indian Army has deployed its forces to assist in rescue operations. Continuous heavy rains for the past two weeks have led to multiple landslides, particularly affecting National Highway 66.

On July 16, 2024, a major landslide struck Shirur Village in Ankola Taluk, trapping several individuals traveling through the area. The Indian Army mobilized two Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief teams from the Maratha Light Infantry Regimental Centre on July 21, 2024, comprising one officer, two Junior Commissioned Officers, and 55 other ranks dedicated to conducting rescue operations in the affected areas. To further bolster the rescue efforts, an additional team from the College of Military Engineering was deployed on July 22, 2024, equipped with the Ferrex Locator 150, a specialized ground penetration radar crucial for detecting individuals trapped under debris.

The state government has been coordinating closely with the Indian Army, providing necessary equipment and logistical support to ensure efficient operations. The rescue mission is expected to last for seven days, with Indian Army personnel working tirelessly to locate and extricate trapped individuals, providing immediate medical assistance and relief.

Further updates on the rescue operations will be provided as the situation develops. Earlier on Saturday, July 20, Uttara Kannada Deputy Commissioner Lakshmi Priya reported that seven bodies were recovered as rescue operations continued in the landslide-hit district in Karnataka. The Deputy Commissioner added that complaints of 10 missing people were received, three of whom were still missing. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Union Minister and JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy took stock of the situation and interacted with the SDRF and NDRF teams undertaking the operations. (ANI)