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13 Heroic Rescue And Relief Operations Carried Out By Indian Army In 2025

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The Commune
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indian army rescue operations jammu kashmir himachal uttarakhand punjab

In the wake of devastating flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army swiftly responded by constructing a Bailey bridge over the Jangalwar stream on National Highway 244, restoring connectivity to the Doda and Kishtwar districts on 2 September 2025.

This report compiles 13 major rescue and relief operations carried out by the Indian Army in 2025, where troops responded swiftly to floods, landslides, cloudbursts, and other disasters across multiple states of Bharat, saving thousands of lives and restoring vital connectivity.

#1 Army Restores Connectivity in Ramban, J&K

In the wake of devastating flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army swiftly responded by constructing a Bailey bridge over the Jangalwar stream on National Highway 244, restoring connectivity to the Doda and Kishtwar districts on 2 September 2025. The washed-away road portion had cut off strategic national projects and vital highways, severely impacting the movement of essential supplies. Army engineers from the White Knight Corps mobilized bridging equipment and executed the mission under challenging conditions, ensuring remote communities regained access to crucial resources and transportation routes.

#2 Bailey Bridge Constructed In 12 Hrs Over Tawi River

On 29 August 2025, after a section of the ₹147 crore fourth bridge collapsed in Jammu due to heavy rains, the Indian Army demonstrated remarkable efficiency by building a 110-foot Bailey bridge within 12 hours. The soldiers, belonging to the Rising Star Corps, launched multiple concurrent rescue missions with assistance from Army and IAF helicopters, evacuating nearly 1,000 people, including children and paramilitary personnel. These concerted efforts rapidly reestablished key communication links between Jammu and Srinagar at a critical time.

#3 Amphibious Vehicle Rescue in Punjab

Severe flooding in Punjab saw the Indian Army deploying the advanced ATOR N1200 amphibious vehicles on 28 August 2025, to rescue civilians stranded in submerged villages. Manufactured in collaboration between JSW Gecko Motors and Copato, these vehicles enabled access to isolated pockets unreachable by conventional means. Army and NDRF teams used this technology to move villagers to safety, exemplifying effective collaboration between Indian innovation and military efficiency during natural calamities.

#4 Gangotri Highway Reopens After Disaster

After a destructive flood submerged a critical segment of the Gangotri National Highway between Harsil and Dharali, the Indian Army and the Border Roads Organisation worked tirelessly to clear debris and install Hume pipes. Their efforts allowed vehicular movement to Gangotri Dham to resume by 30 August 2025—24 days after the highway became impassable. The reopening reconnected pilgrims and locals, underscoring the army’s pivotal role in restoring mobility in disaster-stricken areas.

#5 Pilgrims Rescued at Machail Mata Temple

Following a deadly cloudburst in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, on 17 August 2025, Indian Army personnel, alongside disaster response teams, swiftly rescued pilgrims stranded at the Machail Mata temple. The catastrophe claimed at least 55 lives, but the Army’s rapid mobilization led troops to the scene within 45 minutes, enabling them to save lives under hazardous conditions. Timely medical and logistical support were provided to the survivors in this remote location.

#6 Air Operations Evacuate Thousands

On August 16 and 17, 2025, Indian Army aviation undertook over 250 hours of sorties using Mi-17s, a Chinook, and other aircraft to rescue more than 5,000 civilians and 300 paramilitary personnel from flood-affected regions in Punjab, Jammu, and Himachal Pradesh. Forty-seven army columns collaborated closely with civil authorities, NDRF, and SDRF to evacuate the stranded, airdrop 21 tonnes of relief materials, restore communications, and lay a critical Bailey bridge at Jammu Tawi, proving the army’s comprehensive disaster management capabilities.

#7 Army Responds Swiftly in Arunachal Valley

After a catastrophic landslide, triggered by a cloudburst on the night of August 16-17, 2025, Indian Army troops under the Spear Corps teamed with the Civil Administration in Angrim Valley, Arunachal Pradesh. Battling treacherous terrain, the teams conducted immediate rescue and relief operations, delivering essential aid and rekindling hope amidst devastation. Their prompt courage and teamwork minimized casualties and initiated the rebuilding of affected communities.

#8 Uttarkashi Cloudburst: Rapid Army Response

Responding to the severe cloudburst that struck Dharali village in Uttarkashi on 5 August 2025, the Indian Army’s IBEX Brigade launched immediate rescue operations in rugged, debris-laden terrain. The troops successfully rescued more than 550 civilians, providing emergency medical care and evacuation services. Their swift intervention amidst landslides was crucial in safeguarding lives and mitigating the disaster’s impact in the flood-hit region.

#9 Boy Airlifted from Flooded River in Rajouri

In a dramatic operation on 23 July 2025, an Army helicopter rescued a minor boy trapped atop a rock in a flooded Rajouri river in Jammu and Kashmir. The joint mission involved the Indian Army, SDRF, local police, and civilian divers braving adverse weather and dangerous currents. The successful airlift showcased close cooperation among agencies and highlighted the valor of the 662 Army Aviation Squadron deployed from the White Knight Corps.

#10 Operation SHIVA: Safeguarding Amarnath Yatra

Following heavy rain and a landslide along the Baltal route in July 2025, the Indian Army played a vital role in ‘Operation SHIVA’ to ensure the safety of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims in Kashmir. The army responded promptly, providing food, medical assistance, and essential support to hundreds stranded by washed-out roads. Their intervention rescued over 500 pilgrims, emphasizing the military’s commitment to protecting lives during religious events affected by natural disasters.

#11 Vital Himachal Track Cleared for Relief

Between July 6 and 11, 2025, the Indian Army, working alongside SDRF, NDRF, and local authorities, restored crucial access in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh. Floodwaters had isolated several villages, but army columns delivered relief material, set up medical camps, and distributed rations. Aid reached areas like Degi, Rushad, and Chapad, ensuring essential supplies continued to vulnerable populations despite challenging conditions.

#12 Massive Rescue Across Northeast India

From May 31 to June 3, 2025, Indian Army, Air Force, Assam Rifles, and multiple agencies executed ‘Operation Jal Rahat-II’ across Manipur, Assam, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh after floods and landslides severed communication. Over 1,560 civilians were rescued from isolated communities, with dedicated medical camps, food, and water supplied to relief centers. The army’s well-coordinated efforts ensured the safety and support of affected populations during this widespread humanitarian crisis.

#13 Avalanche Response in Uttarakhand

On February 28, 2025, a massive avalanche struck a Border Roads Organisation camp in Mana, Uttarakhand. Indian Army troops from the IBEX Brigade undertook a dangerous and determined rescue operation, saving 46 people amidst harsh weather and challenging terrain. Despite their best efforts, eight lives were lost. The operation demonstrated the army’s bravery, resilience, and unwavering commitment under the most adverse circumstances.

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