Sikkim Tragedy: IAF Choppers Rescue Severely Injured Victims from Remote Area

GANGTOK: The Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out critical casualty evacuations with two Cheetah helicopters in Thangu, Sikkim, on Wednesday, swiftly responding to the immediate need for assistance. These evacuations saved precious lives in areas where advanced medical facilities and road transportation are scarce, as stated by the Eastern Air Command of the IAF.

Simultaneously, the IAF's relief operations continued in Sikkim, which is still reeling from the impact of a devastating flash flood. The IAF has been actively participating in relief efforts alongside the Sikkim government, focusing on prioritizing the needs of those affected by the calamity.

According to officials, the IAF's Cheetah, Chinook, Mi-17 1V, and Mi-17 V5 helicopters have collectively flown 262 sorties, ensuring the safe transport of 2,002 civilians from the flood-affected areas to safer locations. They have also moved over 1,32,805 kg of relief material to the areas in need.

Moreover, the IAF has provided transportation for 259 relief workers and 179 Indian Army personnel to the affected regions. This collaborative effort aims to extend support and aid in the ongoing relief work.

Earlier, relief operations by the Indian Air Force continued unabated in Sikkim, which is still counting the spoils from a devastating flash flood, officials said. According to officials, the IAF has been undertaking relief operations using its Cheetah, Chinook, Mi-17 1V, and Mi-17 V5 helicopters, complementing the ongoing efforts of the Sikkim government to bring a measure of relief to people affected by the calamity and meet their requirements on priority.

Till now, the IAF has flown 262 sorties, resulting in the safe transportation of 2,002 civilians from the flood-ravaged areas to safer locations and the shifting of over 1,32,805 kg of relief material to the affected areas, according to an official release. The IAF said it has also ferried 259 relief workers and 179 personnel of the Indian Army to the affected areas to extend a helping hand in the ongoing relief work.

Meanwhile, the death toll from the Sikkim flash flood rose to 40, with 76 more still missing in the disaster-hit state, an official statement said. Further, according to the Sikkim State Disaster Management Authority, 4,418 people have been evacuated from all four affected districts to date.

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