Navy launches rescue & relief operations in Kerala, Karnataka

Mumbai: Six teams of the Indian Navy rescued 109 persons Sunday morning under the directions of the Thrissur Joint Operation Commander (JOC). Navy officer Pulkit Soni led the team comprising three sailors. Upon being told about a broken bridge and road, the team was escorted to the location by civil police with their rescue/relief material.

There were 109 persons trapped on the other side of a strong stream, who had to be brought to the safer side, the strong flow of water notwithstanding. The team joined six ropes to make a pathway across the stream which had broken trees and broken bridge material.

The team started the rescue operation at about 1500 hours and by 1930 hours, was able to rescue all persons trapped on the other side including infants, children, senior citizens and women. Further, mineral water bottles, fruits and bread were supplied to the locals in distress.

A Navy officer said, “The team was told about a broken bridge and road there. The team conducted a rescue mission there.”

Meanwhile, the Navy has also undertaken rescue operations in the neighbouring state of Karnataka. The headquarters Karnataka Naval Area has deployed two rescue teams along with two Gemini craft in the Kodagu area of Karnataka since Friday.

The operation is being carried out by the Navy with the help of the NDRF and the civil administration. The two teams have rescued a total of 67 people from Kalluru and Devasur villages in the Kodagu district.

These areas have become virtually inaccessible by road and Navy personnel had to trek about 5km every day to reach the locals. The rescued persons include two pregnant women and some elderly people.

A relief centre has been set up near Madikeri by the civil administration and rescue operations by the Navy will continue till the situation is brought under control.