Indian Air Force Rescues Hundreds as Kedarnath Valley Sees Major Relief Operations

In a significant rescue operation, the Indian Air Force airlifted 201 people, including 17 NDRF personnel, from Kedarnath Valley. Despite severe weather conditions, helicopters delivered 2000 kg of relief material to critical areas. Locals pitched in, aiding the ongoing efforts to save lives and provide relief.

On Monday, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a major rescue operation, airlifting 201 individuals, including 17 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel, from the Kedarnath Valley. The IAF also delivered approximately 2000 kg of relief materials to critical areas.

Earlier the same day, eight NDRF personnel and 94 people, including children and patients, were rescued from the valley. The rescue mission, initially delayed due to adverse weather, resumed operations with improved conditions.

IAF's MI-17 and Chinook helicopters transported the rescued passengers to Chardham helipad and Gauchar airstrips. The Ministry of Defence announced on X that multiple sorties were conducted to evacuate stranded individuals.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his gratitude on X, praising local residents for their support during the rescue operations. He applauded the efforts of village heads, horse-mule operators, and various local organizations.

The search efforts intensified with dog squads, led by District Disaster Management Officer Nandan Singh Rajawar, scouring areas from Rambara to Bhimbali in Rudraprayag. Uttarakhand Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Secretary Vinod Kumar Suman confirmed the ongoing rescue mission as a priority task.

(With inputs from agencies.)