Army’s Operation Rahat Rescues 6,000 in Flood-Hit North

The Indian Army’s Western Command is spearheading large-scale Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations under Operation Rahat, after severe floods struck Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. In just two weeks, the Army has evacuated over 6,000 people, provided medical aid to 13,000 citizens, and delivered 48 tons of essential supplies to affected communities.

Scale of Relief Operations

So far, 82 HADR missions have been carried out using 59 Army columns, including 17 Engineer Task Forces. Among those rescued were 300 paramilitary personnel, as well as thousands of stranded civilians.

Key relief measures include,

• Medical Assistance: Over 13,000 people treated, with critical patients airlifted.
• Supply Delivery: Medicines, water, and rations air-dropped or transported by ground convoys.
• Evacuation: Civilians relocated from inundated villages and border outposts.

Aviation Assets in Action

The Army and Air Force have deployed a powerful aviation fleet, clocking over 250 flight hours,

• 3 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALHs)
• 6 MI-17 helicopters
• 6 Cheetah helicopters
• 1 Chinook heavy-lift helicopter

These aircraft have been instrumental in rescuing stranded people, supplying essential commodities, and monitoring flood-affected regions.

Engineering Works for Restoration

Engineer units are working round-the-clock to rebuild critical infrastructure,

• Diversion of floodwaters from vulnerable areas
• Repair of bridges and washed-out roads
• Strengthening of embankments (bunds)
• Laying of over 2 km of optical fiber cable to restore mobile connectivity in Jammu

Special priority is being given to border outposts and isolated villages, where restoring road links and communication lines is vital for both operational and humanitarian reasons.

Coordination with Civil Agencies

Operation Rahat is being executed in close coordination with civil administration, NDRF, and SDRF, ensuring maximum use of resources. A Flood Control and Water Level Monitoring Cell has also been established at all command headquarters to track rising water levels at Bhakra Nangal Dam, Ranjit Sagar Dam, and other key points.

This integrated approach reflects a strong whole-of-nation effort, showcasing unity and resilience in crisis response.

Key Facts for Exam

• Operation: Rahat (Western Command)
• Regions Covered: Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir
• People Evacuated: Over 6,000 (including 300 paramilitary)
• Medical Aid Provided: 13,000+ citizens
• Relief Supplies: 48 tons delivered