ITANAGAR, Jun 24: The Department of Civil Aviation swiftly activated its emergency response mechanism following reports of flash floods in the Poosa area of Keyi Panyor district, facilitating urgent air support for ongoing rescue and relief operations.
According to Civil Aviation Secretary M Riba, the department immediately coordinated with the Indian Air Force (IAF) through the Eastern Air Command, Shillong, following a requisition received from the Deputy Commissioner of Keyi Panyor district.
Acting promptly despite challenging weather conditions, the IAF deployed an aircraft to airlift personnel and relief materials. The mission transported a State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) team along with essential equipment from the Itanagar Capital Region to Pitapool in Keyi Panyor district to strengthen rescue efforts in the flood-affected area.
The operation was carried out under the guidance and support of Col R Malhotra of the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) and Group Captain Mukesh Chauhan of Air Headquarters. The IAF team successfully reached Hollongi and subsequently flew to Pitapool to deploy the SDRF personnel and materials.
Officials informed that additional air support missions may be undertaken depending on the evolving requirements of rescue and relief operations in the affected areas.
The Department of Civil Aviation, along with Disaster Management Secretary Dani Salu, expressed gratitude to the IAF, SDRF and Airport Authority officials at Hollongi for the swift mobilisation of air support during the critical emergency.
They also acknowledged the efforts of Deputy Commissioner Shweta Nagarkoti Mehta, the Superintendent of Police and the District Disaster Management team of Keyi Panyor for coordinating ground operations and ensuring effective response despite difficult conditions.