Indian Air Force Concludes Kedarnath Valley Rescue Operation

The Indian Air Force has wrapped up its rescue operations in Uttarakhand's Kedarnath valley, evacuating the last survivor after a cloudburst-triggered landslide. Over 218 individuals were rescued, and more than 15,000 people were saved during the operation. Chief Minister Dhami expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts.

The Indian Air Force has concluded its rescue operations in Kedarnath valley after successfully evacuating the last survivor from the landslide-hit region of Uttarakhand, the IAF said on Sunday. A total of 218 personnel were rescued from Gaurikund, where a cloudburst had caused catastrophic landslides, stranding numerous pilgrims, according to a post on 'X' from the Indian Air Force-Media Co-ordination Centre.

The 10-day mission involved IAF Mi-17 V5 and Chinook helicopters overcoming challenging conditions to evacuate the elderly, injured, and ill. Over six tons of relief material were airlifted. While a Chinook remains on standby, the Mi-17 V5 has been decommissioned, the post further detailed. Earlier, a bulletin from the Chief Minister's office reported that 78 individuals, including local shopkeepers, saints, and horse-mule drivers who had voluntarily stayed back in Kedarnath, were ferried to Guptkashi on Sunday via MI-17.

As the MI-17 completed its operations, no pilgrims remained stranded. Essential food and logistics supplies were delivered to Kedarnath Dham via MI-17 and state helicopters, the release mentioned. Simultaneously, the Chinook helicopter has been paused for delivering heavy machinery to Kedarnath, pending weather clearance for its exit. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah for their swift assistance. Dhami noted that Modi personally monitored the situation and commended the various agencies involved for their strategic and speedy collaboration, saving over 15,000 lives. The Chief Minister also appreciated the local communities for their support in this massive rescue effort.

Dhami acknowledged the remarkable efforts of the Indian Air Force, NDRF, SDRF, DDRF, District Administration, Police, PWD, and Irrigation departments during these challenging times. He also highlighted his own role in monitoring the operation and ensuring rapid response measures. Officials visited affected areas, supervised on-site, and prioritized restoring normalcy in Kedarghati. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)