Army’s Western Command launches ‘Operation Rahat’ in flood-hit J&K, Punjab, Himachal

Jammu, Sep 8: Following the recent floods, the Indian Army’s Western Command has launched Operation Rahat to provide assistance and relief to and disaster hit areas in Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh.
According to a statement, since August 26, the Army has carried out 82 missions with the deployment of 59 columns, including 17 Engineer Task Forces. These efforts have focused on evacuation, medical aid, and restoration of infrastructure. Over 6,000 citizens have been evacuated across the three states, including 300 personnel from the PMF.
“Medical support has been provided to more than 13,000 individuals, including critically ill patients requiring emergency transport,” it added.
“The Army has delivered 48 tons of essential supplies, including rations, medicines, and drinking water, through both air-drops and ground convoys. Aviation assets deployed in the operation include 3 ALHs, 6 MI-17s, 6 Cheetah helicopters, and 1 Chinook, which have collectively flown over 250 hours of sorties to support relief missions,” it said.
In coordination with civil administration, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), the Army has focused on restoring connectivity and essential infrastructure.
Engineering teams have worked on diverting floodwaters, repairing bridges, restoring washed-away roads, and strengthening embankments. At Madhopur Headworks, teams remain deployed to support urgent restoration efforts.
“Notable measures in Jammu & Kashmir include laying over 2 kilometers of optical fiber cable in Bhagwati Nagar to restore mobile connectivity on August 27 and constructing a Bailey bridge at Jammu Tawi within 12 hours on August 29 to reopen a key route,” it added.
Medical camps and community kitchens have been established across affected districts to provide first aid, preventive care, and cooked meals to stranded populations. Flood Control and Water Monitoring Cells have been set up at headquarters to track water levels at critical points, including Ranjit Sagar and other major dams, ensuring timely deployment of resources. (KNO)