PAF launches large scale flood relief operation in GB

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has launched a large-scale flood relief operation in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) to assist communities severely affected by torrential rains, flash floods, and landslides. The devastating monsoon rains have wreaked havoc across the region, cutting off several remote areas, damaging infrastructure, and displacing hundreds of families.

The PAF, known for its swift response in national emergencies, has stepped up with massive rescue and relief efforts, delivering essential supplies, evacuating stranded families, and setting up temporary shelters.

• Airlifting relief goods to remote and inaccessible areas of Gilgit-Baltistan.

• Deployment of specialized teams for rescue operations and medical aid.

• Setting up field medical camps to treat injured and displaced individuals.

• Evacuation of stranded families using helicopters and boats.

• Distribution of ration packs, tents, blankets, and medicines to affected households.

• Collaboration with NDMA, GBDMA, and local authorities to maximize relief coverage.

Gilgit-Baltistan, known for its mountainous terrain and tourist attractions, has been severely impacted by continuous monsoon rains. Over the last few weeks:

• Flash floods have washed away key connecting roads.

• Bridges collapsed, cutting off access to remote valleys.

• Hundreds of homes have been damaged or destroyed.

• Families are stranded without food, clean water, and medical facilities.

The situation in several districts, including Skardu, Hunza, Ghizer, Diamer, and Gilgit, has been declared critical. Authorities warned that if relief operations are not scaled up rapidly, the humanitarian crisis may worsen.

The Pakistan Air Force has always been at the forefront when natural disasters strike. From the 2005 Kashmir earthquake to the 2010 super floods, the PAF has consistently played a key role in rescue and relief efforts.

In this operation, the PAF has mobilized:

• Heavy-lift helicopters to transport supplies to cut-off areas.

• Fixed-wing aircraft for large consignments of relief goods.

• Rapid-response rescue teams trained in disaster management.

• Medical specialists to set up field hospitals in affected zones.

This swift response underlines the PAF’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and national solidarity in times of crisis.

Airlifting Relief Supplies

Due to road blockages and landslides, helicopters are the only means of reaching several villages in Upper Hunza and Ghizer. The PAF is airlifting:

• Ration bags containing flour, rice, pulses, sugar, and cooking oil.

• Bottled water for clean drinking purposes.

• Temporary shelters, including tents and tarpaulins.

• Essential medicines and first-aid kits.

Medical Assistance

PAF medical teams have set up field hospitals in Skardu and Chilas to treat:

• Flood-related injuries.

• Waterborne diseases are caused by contaminated water.

• Trauma cases among displaced families.

Emergency vaccination drives have also been initiated to prevent outbreaks of cholera and dengue fever.

Evacuation Operations

Using rescue helicopters, PAF has successfully evacuated dozens of families from Jaglot, Gupis, and other high-risk flood-prone zones. Special focus is given to:

• Elderly individuals.

• Children and women.

• People requiring urgent medical attention.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA) are working closely with the PAF to ensure smooth coordination. Relief efforts include:

• Joint operation centers were established in Gilgit and Skardu.

• Real-time monitoring of weather patterns and flood levels.

• Prioritizing remote and high-risk zones for aid delivery.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also directed federal agencies to provide full logistical support to ensure timely relief distribution.

The Pakistan Air Force’s large-scale flood relief operation in Gilgit-Baltistan reflects the nation’s commitment to humanitarian aid and solidarity during crises. By providing timely rescue, medical care, and essential supplies, the PAF is helping thousands of flood-hit families survive this natural disaster.

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