Did the IAF evacuate 11 civilians and deliver essentials in flood-ravaged Punjab?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- IAF evacuated 11 civilians from flooded areas.
- Delivered 2,150 kg of essential relief supplies.
- Conducted operations in Pathankot and Gurdaspur.
- Utilized 24 aircraft for rescue and supply missions.
- Western Command remains committed to restoring normalcy.
Chandigarh, Aug 31 (NationPress) In a continued effort to provide humanitarian aid in the flood-affected districts of Pathankot and Gurdaspur in Punjab, the Indian Air Force announced on Sunday that it successfully evacuated 11 civilians, delivered 2,150 kg of crucial relief supplies, and recovered the remains of a missing employee from the Madhopur barrage, ensuring they returned with dignity.
These ongoing initiatives demonstrate the Indian Air Force’s steadfast dedication to humanitarian principles and its mission of serving the nation,” the armed service stated.
In light of the devastating floods impacting regions of Jammu and Punjab, the Indian Army's Western Command has been actively conducting thorough Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. A total of forty-seven columns, along with Army Aviation and IAF helicopters, have been mobilized with engineers, medical teams, and communication resources to offer swift relief.
Air assets and IAF platforms were heavily utilized, deploying 24 aircraft, including three Advanced Light Helicopters, ten reconnaissance and observation helicopters, six Mi-17s, and a Chinook, to facilitate rescues and deliver essential relief supplies, according to the Command's statement.
Western Command chief, Lt General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, visited the flood-hit regions in Jammu and Punjab to assess the ongoing HADR operations and was updated on the extensive rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts undertaken by the army in close collaboration with state administration, police, and civil authorities.
The army commander expressed satisfaction regarding the high preparedness level, rapid deployment of teams, and continuous efforts in evacuating stranded individuals, providing medical assistance, essential supplies, and restoring connectivity. He commended the dedication and exceptional performance of all involved, including police and civil administration officials, praising the collaboration shown in addressing the crisis.
Western Command remains dedicated to offering every possible assistance to the civil administration and local communities, aiming to alleviate the flood's impact and restore normalcy as quickly as possible, the statement concluded.