Indian Army Helps in Karnataka Landslide Rescue Efforts
Uttara Kannada (Karnataka) [India], July 23: In response to severe weather and landslides in Uttara Kannada, the Indian Army has deployed its forces to assist in rescue operations. The region has experienced continuous heavy rains for the past two weeks, leading to multiple landslides, particularly affecting National Highway 66.
On July 16, 2024, a major landslide struck Shirur Village in Ankola Taluk, trapping several individuals. The Indian Army quickly mobilized two Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) teams from the Maratha Light Infantry Regimental Centre (MLIRC) on July 21, 2024. These teams, consisting of 01 officer, 02 Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), and 55 Other Ranks (OR), are dedicated to rescue operations in the affected areas.
To further support the rescue efforts, an additional team from the College of Military Engineering (CME) was deployed on July 22, 2024. This team, comprising 01 JCO and 02 OR, is equipped with the Ferrex Locator 150, a specialized ground penetration radar crucial for detecting individuals trapped under debris.
The state government is closely coordinating with the Indian Army, providing necessary equipment and logistical support to ensure efficient operations. The rescue mission is expected to continue for seven days, during which the Indian Army personnel will work tirelessly to locate and extricate trapped individuals, providing immediate medical assistance and relief.
Further updates on the rescue operations will be provided as the situation develops. Earlier on July 20, Uttara Kannada Deputy Commissioner Lakshmi Priya reported that seven bodies were recovered, and three individuals were still missing. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy have reviewed the situation and interacted with the SDRF and NDRF teams involved in the operations.
Doubts Revealed
Indian Army -: The Indian Army is the land-based branch of India’s military. They help protect the country and also assist in emergencies like natural disasters.
Karnataka -: Karnataka is a state in the southern part of India. It has many cities and towns, and sometimes it faces natural problems like heavy rains and landslides.
Landslide -: A landslide happens when a lot of earth, rocks, and mud slide down a hill or mountain. It can be very dangerous and block roads or damage houses.
National Highway 66 -: National Highway 66 is a major road in India that runs along the western coast. It connects many important cities and towns.
Maratha Light Infantry Regimental Centre -: This is a special training center for soldiers in the Indian Army. They are trained to be very strong and skilled in different types of missions.
College of Military Engineering -: This is a school where soldiers learn about engineering, like building bridges and roads. They also learn how to handle emergencies.
Specialized radar -: Specialized radar is a tool that helps find people who are trapped under debris. It uses waves to detect movements and can save lives.
State government -: The state government is the group of people who manage and make decisions for a state like Karnataka. They work with other groups to help people in emergencies.
