India has stepped up its humanitarian response to Nepal after devastating flash floods struck the Himalayan nation, rapidly sending 62 tonnes of emergency relief supplies and reinforcing its position as a regional “first responder”. The assistance has been delivered through three airlifts since the disaster struck on August 26.
The first Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft took off within hours of the disaster, carrying 10 tonnes of humanitarian and disaster-relief material. The first consignment included temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps and essential medicines and reached Kathmandu the same night.
A larger C-17 aircraft subsequently transported 37.5 tonnes of supplies. The consignment included tents, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps, dewatering pumps, kitchen sets and generator sets, along with medicines and food items. A third flight carrying another 10 tonnes of humanitarian assistance was also dispatched to Nepal.
India’s rapid response came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed India’s readiness to provide all possible humanitarian assistance. Indian authorities have maintained close communication with Nepal as relief and rescue operations continue.
The disaster has caused widespread destruction along the Nepal-China border. An ice or glacial avalanche is believed to have triggered a massive surge of water, mud, rocks and debris, destroying villages, roads, bridges and other infrastructure. As of Saturday morning, at least 579 people had died in Nepal, while more than 1,900 people were reported missing, including hundreds of Indians and people of Indian origin.
Nepal has indicated that it can manage general search-and-rescue operations with its own security forces and has not sought foreign rescue teams as a priority. However, Kathmandu has been open to humanitarian supplies and specialised technical assistance. India is also preparing additional support, including medical assistance, engineering teams and equipment to help restore damaged infrastructure.
India’s response reflects its growing role in disaster relief across the region and beyond. Its quick mobilisation of aircraft, relief material and specialised support highlights New Delhi’s stated commitment to standing with neighbouring countries during major humanitarian emergencies.
Reader Comments 0