The Western Command has launched extensive flood relief and rescue operations in Jammu, Punjab, and parts of Himachal Pradesh, demonstrating swift response, meticulous preparedness, and seamless coordination with civil agencies.
A statement from the Army spokesperson stated that following the operations which commenced on 16-17 August, an assessment of the developing flood situation was taken, with troops, engineers, medical detachments, and aviation assets mobilised at short notice to safeguard lives and restore essential services.
A total of 47 Army columns have been mobilised, comprising personnel from engineers, medical detachments, and communication teams also in addition to the Main rescue teams. Twenty aircraft, including Advanced Light Helicopters, Reconnaissance and Observation helicopters, Mi-17s, and a Chinook, are engaged in round-the-clock missions and have flown over 250 hours so far.
More than 5,000 civilians and 300 paramilitary personnel have been rescued from inundated areas. Approximately 21 tonnes of relief material, including food packets, medicines, and essential commodities, have been delivered on the ground and through aerial drops to cut-off villages.
“Flood relief columns were fully prepared, trained, and equipped to undertake Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions. On receiving requisitions from the civil administration, these columns were swiftly deployed across affected areas. Aviation assets, both of Indian Army Aviation and further supported by the Indian Air Force, have been flying sustained sorties, ensuring the timely evacuation of stranded civilians and aerial delivery of critical supplies,” the spokesperson stated.
A Flood Control and Water Level Monitoring Cell has been established, functioning round-the-clock to monitor water levels across major headworks, including Bhakra Nangal Dam, Ranjit Sagar Dam, and other critical points. Operations are being conducted in close coordination with the civil administration, NDRF, and SDRF.
On 27 August, Communication teams laid more than 2 km of optical fibre cable, restoring mobile connectivity and enabling smooth coordination of relief measures. Subsequently, Army Engineers successfully constructed a Bailey Bridge at Jammu Tawi within 12 hours on 29 August.
Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, Army Commander, Western Command, visited forward areas to review relief measures. He interacted with troops engaged in rescue missions and personally assessed distribution mechanisms.