KATHMANDU, Sept 10: India has sent its eighth Air Force flight carrying humanitarian assistance to Nepal as it continues to support rescue and relief operations following the devastating flash floods.
According to a press release issued by India’s Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi on Wednesday, India has sent more than 130 tonnes of relief materials to Nepal through eight special flights since August 26, along with 54 experts to support ongoing rescue, relief and forensic operations.
The relief assistance includes temporary shelters, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps and medicines, as well as specialized equipment for tunnel and mud rescue operations. The supplies also include mud rescue suits, gas detectors, breathing apparatus and inflatable walkways.
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India has also provided DNA kits, reagents and equipment for DNA profiling, along with portable generators, lighting towers and dewatering pumps, according to the ministry.
The specialized tunnel rescue team initially began operations in coordination with the Nepali Army at two sites—Chilime and Langtang. The ongoing search operation is now focused on Chilime, where difficult terrain, limited access and the slope of the tunnel have posed challenges, the press release said.
The Indian team has continued its efforts through manual work and what the ministry described as innovative techniques. A makeshift track is also being constructed to allow heavy machinery, including an excavator, to reach the tunnel.
According to the ministry, construction of the track is progressing and is expected to be completed within another two to three days, which could help accelerate the rescue operation.
Meanwhile, the Indian forensic team is working at two laboratories in Kathmandu to examine and analyze DNA samples in coordination with Nepali authorities.
The forensic laboratory equipment, DNA kits and reagents supplied by India are being used to support the ongoing identification efforts, the ministry said.
India has reiterated its commitment to providing all possible assistance to the people and Government of Nepal and continuing its support for rescue, relief and recovery efforts in the country.
