Gujarat floods: Army's Golden Katar Division, IAF at rescue ops

Ahmedabad [Gujarat], July. 26 (ANI): The Golden Katar Division of the Indian Army on Wednesday released two additional columns; fully equipped with specialized equipment to bolster the ongoing operations in the flood hit districts in the state of Gujarat, in response to an increased requirement for aerial rescue and relief effort projected by the state government. There are now a total of five Indian Army Columns engaged in rescuing people in the flood ravaged villages of Gujarat. Three of these columns have been drawn from Dhrangadhara Military Station while two others each has been sent from Gandhinagar based Parbat Ali Brigade and Bhuj based Bald Eagle Brigade. The Indian Army Contingents at work are accompanied by eleven Engineer Task Forces and three medical teams. Major General Anil Puri SM, VSM General Officer Commanding Golden Katar Division is scheduled to visit the worst effected Khara Village in Kankrej Tehsil of Banaskantha today to oversee the rescue and relief work. Earlier in the day, the Indian Air Force (IAF) released sixteen helicopters which are being used for winching and airlifting of people dangerously stranded in the midst of flood waters. These helicopters are also used for dropping and supply of relief material (food, water and medicines) to villages inaccessible by road to the rescue teams operating on ground. These helicopters are being flown by the IAF aircrew braving extremely challenging weather conditions prevailing in the area marked by low clouds, poor visibility and rains. The IAF aircrafts have been operating from bases established at Deesa, Mehsana, Patan and Ahmedabad, keeping into focus the inundated villages in Banaskantha and Patan districts, with an aim to provide timely succor to the people in distress and save as many lives as possible. (ANI)