New Delhi, July 5, 2013: With completion of its first phase of large-scale “Operation Rahat” to rescue stranded people in the rain-ravaged Uttarakhand, the Indian Air Force is moving into the second phase of the operation to support long-term rehabilitation efforts in the hilly areas of the State.

In a communication to all units and stations of the IAF, the Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal N.A.K. Browne reminded his force that they would be required to “shift gears and adopt a different approach and formulate a new strategy”.

Taking note of the synergy which the IAF had achieved with the Army, the ITBP and the NDRF and local administration in rescue efforts, the IAF chief said that he was confident that the Air Force “will continue to contribute significantly towards rebuilding Uttarakhand.”

Commending all air warriors for their contribution towards execution the IAF’s mission, he saluted the five brave air force personnel of 157 helicopter unit who sacrificed their lives while carrying out rescue mission in Kedar Valley.

Pointing out that “Operation Rahat” was one of the biggest ever humanitarian relief and evacuation efforts undertaken by the IAF helicopter and transport fleet, the IAF chief said the sheer scale of rescue effort to save lives was compressed into a very tight time-frame while operation in difficult mountainous terrain and hostile weather conditions.

During the first phase in 15 days, the IAF flew 2,140 missions and its choppers evacuated 19,600 people and carried 3,82,400 kg of relief material — a herculean effort by any standards, he said.

“By placing the safety, security and comfort of our distressed countrymen above your own, you have indeed enhanced the prestige of IAF in the eyes of the entire nation,” the IAF chief said in the message to all stations and units of the Air Force.

Source: The Hindu, DT. July 5, 2013.