New Delhi: Regardless of the state of India’s political or diplomatic ties with any nation, it always stands at the forefront when disaster strikes. Nepal is currently reeling from a tragedy caused by sudden floods following a glacier burst, which has claimed approximately 700 lives so far. A large number of people remain trapped in the debris, and the death toll could rise further.
A major concern is that water levels have not yet fully receded. Amidst these dire circumstances, the Indian government has proven to be a lifeline for the people of Nepal, dispatching significant quantities of aid. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has shared key details regarding this assistance.
India Steps Up to Assist in Rescue Operations
India is providing not only food supplies but also active support in relief and rescue operations to help extract those trapped in the debris. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced that a fourth flight carrying 11 tonnes of relief material has departed for Nepal. He stated on the social media platform ‘X’ that an Indian Air Force C-130 aircraft is en route to Nepal with relief supplies.
The aircraft is carrying a specialised technical team to assist in search and rescue operations, along with essential equipment. He further mentioned on ‘X’ that a team of forensic experts and forensic equipment for DNA testing have also been dispatched. Additionally, the relief consignment includes essential items such as blankets, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, plastic sheets, and hygiene kits.
India Sending Aid for Bridge Reconstruction
Severe flooding has destroyed and washed away numerous bridges, completely severing transport connectivity. To facilitate bridge reconstruction, the Indian government has sent components for modular steel bridges. According to the External Affairs Minister, 16 trucks carrying the necessary materials for a 230-foot-long single-lane modular steel bridge have already arrived in Nepal.
Furthermore, arrangements are being made to soon dispatch materials required for the installation of seven additional Bailey bridges. Meanwhile, technical teams are also expected to arrive in Nepal soon to install these bridges. The bridges will help accelerate relief and rescue operations amidst the flood debris and water.
Relief supplies have been sent from India so far.
The Government of India appears fully committed to providing relief during the crisis caused by the disaster in Nepal. India has already dispatched a significant quantity of relief materials to the country. According to a report, a total of 68.5 tonnes of supplies have been delivered to Kathmandu so far. These include essential medicines, portable generators, food packets, water purification tablets, and equipment for relief and rescue operations. Relief materials had also been sent to Nepal earlier via Indian Air Force aircraft.
