IAF C-130 Delivers Aid to Jammu Landslide Victims

An Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130J Super Hercules aircraft landed in Jammu on Wednesday, delivering critical relief and rescue supplies to support victims of a deadly landslide near Adhkuwari on the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine route. The aircraft, deployed from Hindan Air Force Station in Ghaziabad, carried National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams and essential materials, including food, medical kits, and tents, to aid those affected by the disaster.

The landslide, triggered by relentless rainfall on Tuesday, August 26, claimed nine lives and injured 21 pilgrims, devastating the pilgrimage route in Reasi district. Torrential rains, ongoing for the fourth consecutive day, have caused widespread flooding, submerging low-lying areas and displacing thousands across Jammu and Kashmir. Over 8,000 people have been evacuated to safer locations, with relief camps operational in Katra and Reasi.

Helicopter assets, including Chinook and Mi-17 V5, remain on active standby at bases in Jammu, Udhampur, Srinagar, and Pathankot, ready to support rescue operations as weather permits. Two additional C-130J aircraft and an IL-76 are on standby at Hindan, carrying 9 tonnes of relief material and 200 NDRF personnel, prepared for further deployment.

Also Read: Jammu Reels Under Deadly Floods, Landslides; Vaishno Devi Yatra Halted

The IAF’s swift response, dubbed “Operation Rahat,” draws on its history of disaster relief, having airlifted 8,623 people and 427 tonnes of supplies in past Jammu and Kashmir operations. The current mission focuses on delivering food, medicines, blankets, and tents to stranded pilgrims and residents.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has directed round-the-clock monitoring, with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and Army units assisting in clearing debris and restoring access to the shrine. The Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has suspended pilgrim movement temporarily, urging devotees to avoid the route until conditions stabilize. Weather forecasts predict continued rainfall, complicating rescue efforts, but the IAF and local authorities remain committed to mitigating the crisis.

Also Read: NDRF’s Heroic Boat Mission Ensures Dignified Farewell