IAF airlifts critical equipment to aid Uttarakhand tunnel rescue operations

The Indian Air Force has deployed a C-17 transport aircraft to airlift 22 tonnes of critical equipment from Indore to Dehradun to assist in the ongoing rescue operations at the Silkyara tunnel collapse site in Uttarakhand.

Rescue operations are underway in Uttarakhand at the Silkyara tunnel site, where 40 laborers have been trapped for five days. A C-17 transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) has been deployed to airlift almost 22 tonnes of critical equipment from Indore to Dehradun.

IAF's Assistance in Rescue Operations

The IAF has continued with its operations to assist the ongoing tunnel rescue underway at Dharasu, Uttarakhand. An IAF C-17 has been deployed to airlift almost 22 tonnes of critical equipment from Indore to Dehradun. The IAF also shared images of the C-17 aircraft and a machine on-board in its post.

Challenges Faced by the IAF

Sources in the IAF shared some of the challenges that were faced by the force on November 15 when it was pressed into action to assist in rescue operations undergoing near Uttarkashi in the hill state. The rescue operations were halted due to the failure of an equipment which was earlier utilized to create a passage. The time-critical mission demanded a swift action to deliver the equipment as close as possible to the rescue location.

IAF's Prompt Response

The IAF took a prompt decision to launch its special operation platform C-130J -- Super Hercules -- to deliver the task. The success of the operation was a result of pinpoint execution. The expertise of the IAF aircrew flying C-130J was evident wherein the whole operation was executed within less than five hours.

Challenges in Operating at Dharasu ALG

In the five-hour operation, Dharasu ALG Advanced Landing Ground, located at Chinyalisaur, was identified as the nearest possible location for the expeditious operation. The ALG is located nearly 30 km from the rescue site. Dharasu ALG is a short and narrow airstrip of 3,600 ft situated at an elevation of 3,000 ft above mean sea level. The IAF utilized an integrated approach handshake with civil administration and the BRO Border Roads Organisation.

Helicopter Reconnaissance and Operational Planning

An IAF helicopter was launched prior to the final mission to ascertain the feasibility of operations. During an earlier feasibility trial, Dharasu ALG was made unfit for routine operations by a C-130J aircraft. Therefore, a fine professional call was required to operationalise the ALG for this operation keeping in mind the criticality of the mission. The helicopter operation was planned with a C-130J pilot on-board to assess obstructions and runway condition. Multiple approaches were flown by the helicopter to ensure that the most suitable call is taken before clearing the ALG for such critical operations.

Quick Operationalisation of Dharasu ALG

The entire mission hinged upon two critical aspects, viz., ALG fitness and success of operation. The ALG was cleared in a short period catering for the operation of a large platform. Initial operationalisation involved a quick vegetation clearance which could have been detrimental for the aircraft operations. The IAF undertook three missions and airlifted 27.5 tonnes of critical rescue equipment into this short airstrip.

Challenges in Offloading Critical Material

The mission was undertaken amid the challenges of reduced visibility conditions during departure, heavy-weight landing at a short and narrow airstrip, and offloading in a constricted space. The offloading of critical material at such remote places was itself a huge challenge for operations. Dharasu ALG did not have specialized equipment required for offloading from C130J aircraft. In one of the cargo offloading, a mud ramp was created locally to avoid delay in subsequent rescue operations.

Calculated Approach and Risk Mitigation

The flying operations needed a calculated approach and adequate risk mitigation to undertake this non-routine critical operation. Despite the challenges, the IAF successfully completed the mission, demonstrating the professionalism and dedication of its personnel.

The rescue efforts in Uttarakhand are ongoing, and the IAF continues to play a crucial role in providing assistance. The force's ability to respond quickly and effectively to challenging situations is a testament to its commitment to serving the nation.