Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Operation Rahat: Western Command intensifies relief, restoration in flood-hit Punjab, Himachal and J-K; View Pics
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, September 8, 2025: The Western Command of the Indian Army has been carrying out large-scale Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations under Operation Rahat since August 26 in the flood-affected regions of Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir.
So far, 82 missions have been executed with the deployment of 59 Army columns, including 17 Engineer Task Forces, leading to the safe evacuation of over 6,000 citizens, among them 300 PMF personnel. More than 13,000 people have received medical aid, including emergency evacuations of critically ill patients.
To sustain affected populations, the Army has delivered 48 tons of rations, medicines, and drinking water through air-drops and ground convoys. Army Aviation and Air Force assets—including 3 ALHs, 6 MI-17s, 6 Cheetah helicopters, and 1 Chinook—have flown over 250 hours of sorties to bolster relief operations.
In coordination with civil administration, NDRF, and SDRF, the Army has focused on restoring connectivity and infrastructure.
Key engineering works include diversion of floodwaters, repair of bridges, restoration of washed-away roads, and strengthening of embankments and anti-flood bunds. A team remains deployed at Madhopur Headworks to support urgent restoration efforts.
Notable achievements include the laying of over 2 km of optical fiber cable to restore mobile connectivity in Bhagwati Nagar, Jammu (August 27), and the construction of a Bailey bridge at Jammu Tawi within 12 hours (August 29), reopening a crucial lifeline for the city.
Medical camps and community kitchens have been set up across affected areas, providing first aid, preventive care against epidemics, and cooked meals for stranded populations.
Flood Control and Water Monitoring Cells have been established at all headquarters to track water levels at critical points, including Bhakra Nangal and Ranjit Sagar Dams, ensuring proactive deployment of resources.
On August 30, Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, Army Commander, Western Command, visited forward areas to review the relief efforts. He praised the synergy between Army troops, civil administration, and other agencies, calling it vital to tackling disasters of this magnitude.
Operation Rahat stands as a testament to the Indian Army’s readiness, resilience, and commitment to safeguarding lives and property, reinforcing its role as a pillar of strength for the nation in times of crisis.