Punjab- Chandigarh : In a massive humanitarian response to the ongoing flood crisis, the Indian Army’s Western Command has rescued over 5,500 civilians and 300 paramilitary personnel, delivered 27 tonnes of essential supplies, and provided medical aid to more than 3,000 people across the flood-affected areas of Punjab and Jammu.
The Army said on Wednesday that it continues to lead large-scale Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations under Operation RAHAT, especially in the Jammu-Pathankot sector and several regions of Punjab grappling with rising water levels.
In response to the worsening flood situation, seven fresh Army columns have been deployed in Punjab’s Tarn Taran, Ferozepur, Shahkot, Phillaur, and Dhatewal, as well as in Sarala and Harchandpura, where the Ghaggar River has breached danger levels.
More than 50 Army columns have been activated so far, working around the clock to rescue stranded individuals, restore essential infrastructure, and deliver life-saving aid. Troops have been assisting civil authorities and the Border Security Force (BSF) in clearing debris and executing emergency construction efforts.
In a significant engineering effort, Army Engineer Regiments have reconstructed the Jaitpur Bund in the Mamun sector, repaired the damaged water supply line at the Sidhra bridge, and used heavy machinery to restore roads between Bikraman helipad and the Tawi viewpoint.
In Punjab, Army personnel are reinforcing embankments at high-risk areas, transporting food and fodder to marooned villages, and clearing critical water channels to mitigate further flooding risks.
One of the standout moments of the ongoing relief efforts was the air evacuation of a pregnant woman stranded in Sumb village, which had been completely cut off due to floodwaters. She was airlifted to a hospital for urgent medical care, highlighting the Army’s commitment to safeguarding every life under the harshest conditions.
The Western Command reiterated that its ongoing operations reflect the Indian Army’s unwavering resolve to support civil authorities, protect lives, and restore normalcy in disaster-hit areas.
Operation RAHAT continues to be a lifeline for thousands affected by the deluge, underscoring the crucial role of the armed forces in national disaster response.
