NewsGate Press Network 

In the wake of the catastrophic landslide that recently impacted Wayanad, Kerala, the Indian Air Force (IAF) as a first responder, commenced rescue and relief operations from early morning hours of 30 Jul 24, in coordination with other agencies such as NDRF and state administration.

The transport aircraft of IAF have played a crucial role in airlifting critical logistics supplies as well as evacuation operations.

The C-17 has transported 53 metric tons of essential supplies such as a Bailey bridge, Dog squads, medical aid, and other essential equipment for rescue support operations.

Additionally, An-32 and C-130 are being utilised for ferrying relief materials and personnel.

Collectively, these aircraft of IAF have facilitated the transportation of over 200 people including rescue teams and displaced residents to and from the disaster stricken zone.

While the challenging weather is restricting flying, IAF is finding opportune time to undertake HADR operations.

lAF has deployed a diverse fleet helicopters towards the effort. The Mi-17 and Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) have been inducted to undertake HADR operations. Despite prevailing wide spread bad weather conditions, IAF aircraft continue to facilitate evacuation of stranded individuals to the nearest medical facilities and safe zones and delivery of essential supplies till late evening of 31 Jul 24.

With rescue operations being underway these helicopters have airlifted large number of people from the affected areas, ensuring their safe and immediate transportation.

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) district HQ (Kerala & Mahe) and ICG Station Beypore were also deployed for disaster relief efforts in Wayanad, Kerala.

A team of 35 ICG personnel led by Deputy Commandant Vivek Kumar Dixit, has been conducting rescue missions in Chooralmala and surrounding villages since July 30, 2024.

The team has assisted many civilians stranded in disaster zones, facilitating their relocation to safe areas and relief camps.

They are also engaged in clearing debris in search of survivors and missing persons and providing immediate first aid to the injured.

This coordinated operation includes the State administration, Indian Army, Indian Navy, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire & rescue services, local police, and various volunteer groups.

To bolster ground efforts, an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) from Coast Guard Air Enclave, Calicut, is on standby for enhanced air support in rescue operations and air-dropping relief materials.

Additionally, ICG Ship Abhinav is en route from Kochi to Beypore, carrying life-saving equipment, relief materials, medicines, and freshwater for distribution to various disaster relief camps in Wayanad.