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25 Years After Bhuj Quake: Air Force Officer Recalls Fateful Day & City's Rebirth

Air Vice Marshal Gurjot Singh Bhullar visited Air Force Station Bhuj to mark the 25th anniversary of the devastating 2001 earthquake. He recalled being a Flight Lieutenant during the quake, describing the chaotic aerial perspective and his subsequent mission to assess the damage. Bhullar paid tribute to the thousands who lost their lives while saluting the indomitable spirit of the people in rebuilding a vibrant, modern city. The solemn remembrance coincides with the nation's celebration of its 77th Republic Day.

Key Points: Bhuj Earthquake 25th Anniversary: Air Vice Marshal Recalls 2001 Tragedy

  • 25th anniversary of 2001 Bhuj earthquake
  • Over 20,000 killed, 1.5 lakh injured
  • Air Force officer recalls aerial view of destruction
  • Tribute to victims and resilient spirit
  • City rebuilt into a vibrant modern hub
2 min read

"Tribute to those who lost their lives that day": Air Vice Marshal Bhullar on 25th Bhuj earthquake anniversary

Air Vice Marshal Gurjot Singh Bhullar shares his memories of the 2001 Bhuj earthquake that killed 20,000, and pays tribute to the city's remarkable recovery.

"I pay tribute to those who lost their lives that day. At the same time, I salute the spirit of the people here. - Air Vice Marshal Gurjot Singh Bhullar"

Bhuj, January 26

Air Vice Marshal Gurjot Singh Bhullar, Senior Officer-in-Charge Administration, South Western Air Command, visited Air Force Station Bhuj on Monday to participate in a wreath-laying ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of the devastating 2001 Bhuj earthquake.

Speaking to ANI, Air Vice Marshal Bhullar recalled the fateful day and said that the earthquake struck as they were coming in to land after the drop in Ahmedabad.

"I was posted in Jamnagar in 2001, and at that time I was a Flight Lieutenant. I remember that day clearly. The earthquake struck as we were coming in to land after the drop in Ahmedabad. ATC had been evacuated because of the earthquake, and it wasn't given clearance to land. So all of us pilots who were flying at that time called each other and coordinated, and we established a holding pattern. After that, we learned that an earthquake had occurred, and we landed. Then, my command, Headquarters, Southwest Command, tasked me to go towards Bhuj and check the extent of the damage. Meanwhile, one of our helicopters came here from Jamnagar, and I came here from Ahmedabad, and I saw the destruction," the Air Vice Marshal said.

He further expressed his admiration for the city's recovery over the years. "Now, 25 years later, when I come here, I see that a completely new city has been built, vibrant cities have emerged, and a modern city has been created. I pay tribute to those who lost their lives that day. At the same time, I salute the spirit of the people here," he added.

On January 26, 2001, a massive earthquake jolted Bhuj in Gujarat's Kutch district, in which more than 20,000 people were killed and over 1.5 lakh people were injured. The earthquake left thousands homeless.

Meanwhile, India celebrates its 77th Republic Day today, as the nation comes together to mark the adoption of the Constitution and showcase its rich cultural and military heritage.

The 77th Republic Day Parade 2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, showcasing India's rich cultural heritage, military prowess, and technological advancements.

It will feature several historic firsts, including the debut appearances of the Bhairav Light Commando Battalion and a specially curated animal contingent from the Remount & Veterinary Corps (RVC), as well as a significant display of India's military "jointness" following 2025's Operation Sindoor.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
The coordination between the pilots when ATC was down is incredible. Real presence of mind. Our armed forces are always the first responders in any crisis. Jai Hind.
A
Aman W
A somber reminder on Republic Day. We celebrate our nation's progress, but must never forget the tragedies we've overcome together. The spirit shown in the rebuilding of Bhuj is the real spirit of India.
S
Sarah B
Reading this from abroad. The scale of the disaster was heartbreaking. It's inspiring to hear how the city has been rebuilt. My thoughts are with the families who lost loved ones.
K
Karthik V
Respect to Air Vice Marshal Bhullar for sharing his firsthand account. While we remember the tragedy, I hope we are also investing more in earthquake-resistant infrastructure across the country, especially in seismic zones. Prevention is key.
N
Nisha Z
My family is from Gujarat. That earthquake was a defining moment. The way everyone came together - army, civilians, people from all over India sending help - it was incredible. Bhuj today is a testament to that unity. 🙏

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