Since August 27, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has ramped up its flood relief and rescue missions in Northern Punjab and Jammu, targeting areas severely impacted by rising floodwaters that have disrupted road and rail connectivity. The IAF has employed Mi-17 and Chinook helicopters, completing over 55 sorties to evacuate stranded individuals, including Indian Army and Border Security Force personnel, from flood-affected regions such as Dera Baba Nanak, Pathankot, and Akhnoor.
Additionally, C-130 transport aircraft have been utilized to rapidly deploy specialized National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to the crisis zones. Over the past three days, these efforts have led to the rescue of 215 people and the distribution of 7,300 kilograms of critical relief supplies to affected communities. Northern Punjab, grappling with persistent high water levels, remains the focal point of operations, with air assets strategically positioned to optimize coverage and aid delivery.
The IAF is collaborating closely with the Indian Army, Border Security Force, NDRF, and local authorities to ensure prompt evacuations and effective distribution of essential supplies.