ITANAGAR, Sep 12: The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) felicitated 11 villagers from Katuk and Ruba for their exemplary courage and selfless assistance during the sudden flash flood in the Kamla River on July 13.
The flash flood caused extensive damage to the ITBP Staging Camp at Tapa under Damin circle in Kurung Kumey district, which was subsequently inundated by the floodwaters.
Amid difficult terrain and adverse weather conditions, villagers from Damin circle came forward to assist ITBP personnel and actively participated in the rescue and evacuation of stranded personnel to safety.
In recognition of their courage and invaluable assistance, 11 villagers from Katuk and Ruba were presented with the ITBP Director General’s Commendation Roll at a ceremony held at Huri under Damin circle.
Representatives of the district administration, police, Indian Army, GREF and SIB, along with prominent citizens from Katuk, Ruba, Huri and adjoining villages, attended the programme.
ZPM Damin Ruba Tanang, ADC Damin Pranjal Bora, Gaon Burahs of Katuk and Ruba, and GBs from other villages of Damin circle were also present.
As a gesture of appreciation for the continued cooperation of the local community, the ITBP also distributed solar street lights, solar lanterns and sports equipment to Katuk and Ruba villages.
The initiative aims to strengthen emergency preparedness, provide lighting during emergencies and enhance night-time security and community facilities in the villages.
Addressing the gathering, ITBP DIG, SHQ Hollongi, Kushal Kumar appreciated the villagers for their exceptional courage and humanitarian spirit during the flash flood.
He said their timely assistance during the crisis reflected the strong bond of trust, cooperation and brotherhood between the ITBP and the local community.
IG, ITBP North East Frontier Headquarters, Amitabh Gupta also conveyed his gratitude to the people of Katuk, Ruba and Damin circle for standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the Force during the difficult hour.
He reaffirmed the ITBP’s commitment to strengthening community engagement, mutual trust and cooperation with local communities in the border areas.