Indian Air Force helicopters are actively engaged in relief operations across Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir, having evacuated 541 people from the Bharmor–Chamba sector and airlifted over 10,000 kilograms of essential relief materials to the Kullu and Kishtwar sectors. The IAF continues to have resources ready for follow-up missions, underscoring its steadfast commitment to humanitarian aid and disaster relief.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully rescued over 540 people in Himachal Pradesh following severe landslides and floods that isolated key areas. In a continuous operation lasting 17 hours, four helicopters and a team of 35 crew members worked tirelessly to evacuate stranded residents and deliver vital life-saving assistance.
Relief Operations in Himachal Pradesh
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been at the forefront of relief operations in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in the worst-affected districts of Kullu, Chamba, and Mandi. After weeks of relentless monsoon rains causing widespread landslides, flash floods, and cloudbursts, the IAF deployed Chinook helicopters for the first time in the state’s history to conduct rescue missions.
Over 540 people were evacuated in a continuous 17-hour operation, while thousands of essential supplies including rations, medicines, and tarpaulin sheets were airdropped to stranded residents in remote areas such as Sainj Valley and Bharmour.
Humanitarian Rescue Amidst Disrupted Connectivity
In Udhampur, one of the worst-hit regions, the IAF carried out daring airdrops of food supplies to isolated families, supported by an intense 17-hour helicopter operation that evacuated hundreds in Himachal Pradesh. The relentless rains caused multiple landslides, collapsing buildings, bridges, and transmission towers, which led to widespread power outages.
Despite partial restoration efforts, the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remains closed between Jakheni (Udhampur) and Bali Nallah due to ongoing restoration work, leaving stranded traffic and hampering ground-level aid. “The unwavering commitment of the IAF and allied forces is a beacon of hope in these challenging times,” stated Western Air Command on their social media.
Background of the Disaster and Relief Challenges
Jammu and Kashmir have suffered over 170 weather-related deaths in the past three weeks, caused by landslides, cloudbursts, and flash floods triggered by heavy rain. Multiple highways across the region, including the Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch and Kishtwar-Sinthan-Anantnag roads, remain shut due to landslides and safety concerns.
The enormity of damage includes the collapse of vital infrastructure and prolonged power outages caused by damaged transmission towers. Officials, including the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu, have indicated that road clearance efforts on the Jammu-Srinagar highway are underway and may reopen soon, enhancing relief and rehabilitation activities.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The resilience shown by the Indian Air Force and disaster response teams exemplifies the spirit of solidarity and swift action critical in times of natural calamities. Yet, this crisis highlights the urgent need for sustainable infrastructure and enhanced disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions.
The Logical Indian urges policymakers and communities alike to prioritise long-term climate resilience and coordinated disaster management strategies.
