NDRF intensifies search for missing persons after Arunachal flash flood, two bodies recovered
Keyi Panyor, June 28
The National Disaster Response Force has intensified search and rescue operations to trace three persons who remain missing after a flash flood struck the NEEPCO Colony near Possa village in Arunachal Pradesh's Keyi Panyor district on June 24, officials said.
Five people had gone missing in the flash flood incident. Authorities have so far recovered two bodies, while efforts are underway to locate the remaining three.
Speaking to ANI, Anand Patel, Deputy Commandant of the 12th Battalion of the NDRF, said the force has deployed specialised equipment, dog squads and boats for the search operation.
"On June 24, a flash flood occurred in the morning in the NEEPCO area, leaving five people missing. The district administration and police initiated a search operation. An NDRF team was requested to assist; however, due to road blockages, they were unable to reach the site during the initial two days," Patel said."The NDRF team arrived yesterday and is currently conducting search operations using specialised equipment, canines and boats," he added.
He said additional NDRF teams equipped with specialised gear are expected to join the operation, which is likely to be intensified by Saturday evening.
"Some additional teams equipped with specialised gear are scheduled to join, and we expect to intensify the search operation by this evening. The presence of significant amounts of high, floating debris, hazardous materials and sharp objects has hindered the operation. Despite these difficulties, we remain committed to the search and are working to recover the missing bodies as soon as possible," Patel said.
Highlighting the challenges faced by the rescue teams, Patel said the hilly terrain, accumulated debris and changing weather conditions have made the operation difficult.
"The primary challenges include the hilly terrain and changing weather conditions," he added.
Search operations are continuing in the affected area as rescue teams work to locate the remaining missing persons.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is terrible 😔. Flash floods are becoming more frequent in Northeast India. We need better early warning systems and infrastructure in hilly areas. My prayers are with the families...
Hat's off to the NDRF teams working in such challenging conditions. The debris and hazardous materials mentioned must make it extremely dangerous. Government should ensure all missing persons are accounted for quickly.
Praying for the families of those missing. It's good that NDRF has brought in dog squads and boats. The terrain looks really tough. Hope they find everyone soon.
Why did it take two days for NDRF to reach? Road blockages are understandable but there should be backup plans. Every hour matters in such situations. Let's hope the authorities learn from this.
So saddening. Five people gone just like that. NDRF deserves all support - they're risking their lives too. Also, need to think about climate change impact on such incidents. Not just relief, but prevention is key.
Respect for the NDRF team. Those floating debris and sharp objects sound super risky. Stay safe while you search. Can't imagine what families of missing people are going through 😞
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