Indian Army, Navy carrying out rescue operations on war footing

Close to 200 teams of the Indian Army have rescued approximately 45,000 people from the floods in Maharashtra and Karnataka, even as the Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy has mobilised considerable resources to provide assistance to the affected areas in these states.

“More relief and rescue operations are ongoing,” said Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISD) Lieutenant General PS Rajeshwar on Friday.

“Flood has affected many parts of peninsular India including Karnataka and Maharashtra. We have been watching the situation and coordinating with all stakeholders to provide relief and rescue to the affected at war footing,” the officer told reporters here.

“Armed Forces in aid have already pressed around 200 teams with boats and helicopters. Approximately 45,000 people have already been rescued,” he added.

“Despite adverse weather conditions and widespread inundation in affected areas, a total of 14 rescue teams of the Western Naval Command, including five teams from Goa Naval Area, have been operating in Kolhapur, Belgaum and Uttar Kannada districts of Maharashtra and Karnataka respectively since August 5,” read a press release of Indian Navy.

“The teams have been deployed using Indian Navy Dornier aircraft and ALH helicopters as well as the Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters from Goa, Mumbai and Pune. Some teams had even proceeded by road when flying operations could not be undertaken. The naval rescue teams are equipped with Gemini rubber boats, loud hailers, first aid kits, life jackets and life buoys,” the release further said.