Massive Rescue and Relief Operations by Armed Forces in Bihar
Dated 7/9/2008
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The Armed Force has carried out massive rescue and relief operations in the flood affected districts of Bihar. A large number of marooned people have been evacuated to safer places and about 20,000 to 25,000 people are being evacuated daily.
Army has deployed 37 columns for flood relief operations in the districts of Supaul, Madhepura, Araria, Purnia and Katihar. It has also deployed 37 medical teams at major relief camps. Army has also pressed into service 450 average size boats, 64 small size boats and 6 helicopters in the rescue and relief operations.
The Indian Air Force has deployed IL-76, AN-32, Avro Aircraft and some helicopters in the rescue and relief operations. The IL-76 has so far evacuated 1360 people and airlifted 290 tonnes of relief materials in 37 sorties. The AN-32 have evacuated 532 people and airlifted 61 tonnes relief material in 102 sorties. Avro aircraft carried out 16 sorties evacuating 61 people and airlifting 9.5 tonnes of relief material. The IAF helicopters evacuated 176 marooned people in 350 sorties. They also airlifted 325 tonnes of relief material.
The Navy has sent 145 specialised divers and 24 boats in the rescue operation. These divers have been sent to Bihar from Vishakapatnam, Mumbai and Kochi.
More teams of Army, Air Force and Navy are ready to move in as and when they are required by the State administration.
The Bihar Government has complemented the efforts put in by the Armed Forces in the rescue and relief operations. The Armed Forces are receiving full cooperation from the local administration, specially the district administration at Purnia from where most of the air lift operations are being carried out.
