IAF choppers come to the aid of flood-affected in Gujarat

Ahmedabad, Aug 1 (UNI) Three helicopters of the Indian Air Force (IAF) from the South Western Air Command (SWAC) swung into action today, carrying out relief sorties from Vadodara and Ahmedabad air-bases for the flood-affected people in the State.

According to IAF sources, an Mi-8 helicopter carried out three sorties and dropped six tonnes of food and relief supplies from Vadodara airfield. An Mi-17 chopper from Ahmedabad base made two sorties and air-dropped over 2.25 tonnes of relief and food materials in the worst flood-affected areas of Kheda, Bhalada, Nadiad, Anand and Petlad areas in Anand district. A third helicopter has been pressed into service for recce operations.

The helicopters were provided after Chief Minister Narendra Modi made an aerial survey of the affected parts. The helicopters will be positioned at the airbases till relief operations are called off.

The SWAC headquarter in Gandhinagar is constantly monitoring the co-ordination between civic and defence authorities in executing the relief and rescue operations.

UNI MP MAZ SHB GC2229