Flood Rescue – IAF Air Support Accelerates Relief Operations in Arunachal Pradesh
Flood Rescue – Flash floods that struck the Poosa region in Arunachal Pradesh’s Keyi Panyor district prompted an immediate emergency response from the state government on Wednesday. Working in close coordination with the Indian Air Force (IAF), authorities launched rescue and relief operations to quickly transport disaster response personnel and critical equipment to the flood-affected areas. The rapid deployment was aimed at supporting people impacted by the sudden rise in water levels and strengthening ongoing rescue efforts.
Civil Aviation Department Activated Without Delay
According to the Arunachal Pradesh Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), the Department of Civil Aviation was placed on immediate alert after receiving reports of the flash floods. Officials initiated emergency procedures to prepare for rescue missions and ensure that air support could be arranged as quickly as possible. The department remained in constant coordination with local authorities to assess the evolving situation and prioritize urgent requirements.
Air Force Assistance Requested for Rescue Mission
Following a formal request from the Deputy Commissioner of Keyi Panyor district, the Department of Civil Aviation contacted the Eastern Air Command (EAC) based in Shillong for operational assistance. The request focused on transporting rescue personnel and essential relief materials to locations that had become difficult to access because of the flood conditions.
Responding promptly, the Indian Air Force launched an airlift mission from the Itanagar Capital Region to Pitapool in Keyi Panyor district. The operation enabled State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel along with emergency supplies to reach the affected region in the shortest possible time.
Challenging Weather Did Not Stop Operations
Officials stated that the air mission was conducted under the supervision of Colonel R. Malhotra from the Ministry of Defence and Group Captain Mukesh Chauhan of the Eastern Air Command. Despite unfavorable weather conditions, the IAF team successfully reached Hollongi before continuing the operation toward Pitapool.
The transported SDRF personnel immediately joined relief activities after arriving at the destination. Essential rescue equipment and emergency materials were also delivered to strengthen ground operations and assist local teams working in flood-hit areas.
More Air Support Planned as Relief Continues
Authorities confirmed that additional air support missions are being planned to meet future operational requirements as rescue and relief work continues across the district. Officials are closely monitoring the situation and remain prepared to deploy further resources if necessary to support affected communities.
Officials Appreciate Coordinated Effort
The Department of Civil Aviation and the Department of Disaster Management expressed their appreciation to the Indian Air Force, SDRF teams, and APD Hollongi for their prompt response and efficient execution of the emergency airlift mission.
They also acknowledged the valuable contribution of Keyi Panyor Deputy Commissioner Shweta Nagar, Koto Mehta, district police personnel, and members of the Disaster Management team. Officials noted that their coordinated ground support and continuous efforts played a significant role in ensuring rescue operations progressed effectively despite the difficult conditions caused by the flash floods.