The Indian army and Indian Air Force have mounted a massive rescue and relief operation in the flood affected areas of Uttarakhandand Madhya Pradesh. The Indian Air Force in coordination with civil administration is facilitating the smooth evacuation of stranded pilgrims from Harshil and Uttarkashi in Uttarakhand.
· Ten army columns are involved in rescue operations in Uttarkashi-Gangotri area. Army is providing succour in the form of medical aid, hot food and other assistance to stranded pilgrims.
· Two army aviation helicopters are operating in coordination with civil administration.
· Two Indian Air Force Advance Light Helicopters (ALH) and one IAF Mi-17 have already been deployed in Harshil/Uttarkashi and one more Mi-17 chopper is being added to augment the rescue and relief efforts.
· Road between Uttarkashi and Dharasu has been opened to light vehicle traffic.
· Armed Forces continue to operate two medical camps and cook houses in Gangnani and has also established a reception/dispersal centre at Dharasu. Five facilitation posts with medical, refreshments etc. have also been established between Uttarkashi andDharasu.
· Foot crossings on Gangori and Soundh Gad has been established to facilitate the movement of pilgrims.
In Madhya Pradesh also, the relief and rescue operations in flood affected areas of Hoshangabad, Raisen and Harda districts are in full swing.
· In Hoshangabad 300 villagers has been rescued so far. Five officers including a medical officer, six JCOs and 150 other ranks continue to involve in flood relief and rescue operations. Four Boat Assault Universal Type (BAUT), four Out Bound Motor (OBM) and two inflated boats have been pressed into service to carry out the flood relief operations.
· Two flood relief army columns have been mobilised to affected areas of Raisen district.
· In Harda district, the situation is being closely monitored. Flood relief columns have been kept in standby to move on a short notice.
