Relief and rescue operations have accelerated in flood hit Jammu and Kashmir as water level recedes.

Over ninety six thousand people have been rescued by the Armed Forces and NDRF so far. Besides 372 active boats, Army has deployed ninety more boats in Srinagar and adjoining areas.

Eighty four transport aircraft and helicopters of Air Force and Army have been pressed into service. 1,237 tonnes of relief materials, including food packets, baby food and water bottles were dropped by the Air Force.
Armed Forces have also established 19 relief camps in Srinagar and Jammu region.

In Srinagar region, camps were established at BB Cantt, Avantipur, Old Airfield, Sumbal, Chattargam and Jijamata Mandir, where thousands of rescued people are being sheltered. Medical teams of the Armed Forces are already operating and till now, more than 21,500 patients have been treated.

A Defence Ministry release issued in New Delhi today said, BRO personnel are trying hard to clear Jammu – Srinagar highway for traffic. Jammu – Poonch road has been cleared for traffic. Road between Sinthan Pass and Anantnag is also now open for light vehicles.

Food and other relief material is being provided to the stranded people. According Army’s Northern Command Head, Lt Gen D S Hooda the situation has improved quite significantly in the worst affected Srinagar city.
Hectic efforts are also underway to gradually restore the snapped telecom links which is hampering the rescue work.