Over 1,42,000 rescued in flood-ravaged Kashmir

Over 1,42,000 people have been rescued so far from various parts of flood-hit Jammu and Kashmir by the armed forces and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), a statement said Saturday.

Eighty six transport aircraft and helicopters of the Indian Air Force and Army Aviation Corps have been pressed into rescue and relief operations, the defence ministry statement said.

The army has deployed around 30,000 troops for the operations, in which 21,000 troops are deployed in Srinagar region and 9,000 troops in Jammu region. Armed forces personnel have been distributing water bottles and food packets.

"So far over 4,00,000 litres of water, 1,31,500 food packets and over 800 tonnes of cooked food have been air dropped and distributed in the flood-affected areas," the statement said.

Thirteen tonnes of water purifying tablets have also been sent.

Water suction and sewage pumps, generator sets and communication equipment have also reached the flood-affected areas.

At least 8,200 blankets and 1,119 tents were provided to the flood victims.

To provide speedy medical aid to the affected people, 80 medical teams of the Armed Forces Medical Services have been operating in full swing. Four field hospitals have also been established.

"Till now they (hospitals) have treated around 22,500 patients. At least 10 tonnes of medicines and other healthcare materials including mobile oxygen generation plant have reached Srinagar from Delhi. Relief materials including blankets, tents, water bottles and food packets are being airlifted," the statement said.

A total of 224 army boats and 148 NDRF boats have been actively involved in the rescue operation.

The armed forces have also established 19 relief camps in Srinagar and Jammu regions.

To restore road connectivity, five task forces of the Border Roads Organisation, which include 5,700 personnel, have been pressed into service.