Indian Air Force Aids in Major Rescue Operation Amid Uttarakhand Floods

The Indian Air Force has deployed Chinook and Mi-17V5 helicopters for rescue operations in Uttarakhand. State police and relief forces evacuated nearly 3,407 people amid heavy rains and landslides, impacting the Kedarnath Yatra. The operation continues as weather conditions remain severe.

In response to severe weather conditions in Uttarakhand's Kedar valley, the Indian Air Force has deployed Chinook and Mi-17V5 helicopters for human assistance and relief operations. Defence officials confirmed collaboration with state authorities to manage the crisis after heavy rains severely damaged routes in the Rudraprayag district on Wednesday night. The ongoing rescue and relief efforts aim to evacuate stranded individuals promptly.

The Uttarakhand police reported that helicopters had rescued 737 people, while relief forces transported at least 2,670 individuals to Sonprayag by Thursday. The police, updating via their official handle on X, announced, 'The rescue of those stranded on the Shri Kedarnath Dham Yatra route is ongoing. 737 passengers were airlifted throughout the day.'

'2,670 passengers were relocated to Sonprayag. Teams from SDRF, NDRF, DDRF, and the district police are tirelessly assisting devotees,' the police statement added. Director General of Police, Uttarakhand, Abhinav Kumar, provided updates on the situation, highlighting the suspension of the Kedarnath Yatra for safety reasons due to landslides. Kumar cautioned citizens and travelers to heed official instructions.

Kumar informed ANI that the Kedarnath Yatra would remain suspended for two days due to the forecasted weather conditions, with 12 NDRF and 60 SDRF teams actively engaged in rescue operations. He noted alerts from the Meteorological Department predicting 48 hours of heavy rain and subsequent landslides and rock falls in various areas, initiating an immediate response from the police, NDRF, SDRF, and local administration.

Considering passenger safety, authorities have temporarily halted the Kedarnath Yatra due to multiple landslides along the Kedarnath footpath. The ongoing situation is being closely monitored, and further measures will be taken as needed to ensure public safety. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)