IAF Executes Precision Rescue Mission from Volcanic Narcondam Island in the Andaman Sea
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Synopsis
The Indian Air Force successfully conducted a high-precision rescue operation on Narcondam Island in the Andaman archipelago, showcasing exceptional skills in challenging conditions to save two critically injured policemen.
Key Takeaways
- IAF carried out a rescue operation from Narcondam Island.
- Used a Mi-17 helicopter for the mission.
- Location is approximately 256 km northeast of Port Blair.
- Narcondam is a dormant volcano and UNESCO heritage site.
- Island has a small population and no visitor accommodation.
Kolkata, Jan 14 (NationPress) The Indian Air Force (IAF) has executed a critical high-precision rescue mission from the isolated and volcanic Narcondam Island in the Andamans, as reported by a Ministry of Defence (MoD) spokesperson in Kolkata.
A Mi-17 medium-lift helicopter performed an exceptionally low hover to save two critically injured police officers, the spokesperson stated.
Narcondam, situated approximately 256 km northeast of Port Blair (now Vijayanagaram), is recognized as India’s easternmost island.
Covering an area of 7.6 square km, the island features a volcanic peak that rises to 710 meters.
The peak is classified as a dormant volcano by the Geological Survey of India.
In 2005, following the devastating tsunami that impacted the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, there were reports of smoke and mud emissions from the peak.
The island is also a designated UNESCO heritage site.
"There is no landing area for helicopters at Narcondam. The aircrew's expertise was thoroughly tested during the extremely low hover. Half of the helicopter was positioned over exposed rocks at low tide, while the other half hovered over the sea. The injured officers were transported on stretchers to the helicopter since it was not feasible to winch them up while the aircraft hovered at a higher altitude," added the MoD spokesperson.
Narcondam, known for its clear waters and coral reefs, is a haven for scuba diving enthusiasts.
The island is densely covered with forests and attracts nature enthusiasts interested in the Narcondam Hornbill and various other flora and fauna.
However, with a population of merely 16 (according to 2016 data), the island does not provide lodging for tourists.
Regular ferry services operate from Diglipur.
Although the island has a police station to deter illegal activities, it was claimed by Myanmar until 1986.
Myanmar relinquished its claim after the maritime boundary between the two countries was delineated.
A lighthouse is also present on the slopes of Narcondam.
