IAF Executes High-Risk Hybrid Rescue to Evacuate Dozens from Kotmale Landslide Zone

According to officials, one Garud commando was winched down into a heavily restricted and perilous zone where ground access had become nearly impossible. Navigating unstable slopes and continuous debris threats, the commando guided stranded individuals through a cross-country route toward a designated helipad set up outside the danger area. From there, evacuation teams transported them to secure locations for further assistance.

The mission demanded exact coordination between aircrew and ground personnel as shifting soil and weather fluctuations continued to complicate the operation. Despite these challenges, the IAF’s rapid response and calculated decision-making enabled the safe rescue of all individuals reported trapped at the time.

The operation stands as a testament to the Indian Air Force’s capability to undertake complex humanitarian missions under extreme conditions, bringing critical relief to a region grappling with sudden natural disaster and underscoring the importance of timely aerial intervention in crisis zones.