In the aftermath of the devastating floods caused by Cyclone Michaung, the heroic efforts of the Indian Armed Forces in undertaking extensive rescue and relief operations have gone unnoticed, prompting a need for recognition.
The impact of Cyclone Michaung was severe on Chennai, prompting the activation of the Indian Army on 4 December 2023. In response to deployment orders, the 12 Madras Regiment, under the HQ Dakshin Bharat Area of the Southern Command, swiftly initiated flood relief columns. Army troops were promptly dispatched to conduct rescue and relief operations in critical areas, including Manapakkam, Muklaivakkam, Madipakkam, Pallikaranai, Thoraipakkam, Velachery, Perumbakkam, and Semmancheri.
Faced with numerous stranded and distressed individuals, including the elderly, children, toddlers, infants, and their parents, who lacked essentials like medical aid, food, and water due to power and supply disruptions, the Army utilised its available resources. Brave soldiers ventured into the most inaccessible flooded areas, navigating without network or light, ensuring the successful rescue of people. Regardless of the time of day, the army fearlessly executed their assigned tasks, prioritising the needs of the people, even in the slightest distress.
The army’s dedication extended to addressing emergency cases, including rescuing pregnant women, unwell infants, and individuals with imminent plans, such as those awaiting their wedding on 6 December 2023. Over three days, from 4 to 6 December 2023, the Army successfully rescued approximately 3500 people.
Unsung Heroes: Armed Forces’ Remarkable Role
In the face of a media blackout surrounding their contributions, Defence PRO shed light on the extraordinary efforts of the armed forces in Chennai. The unparalleled dedication of the Armed Forces needs to a commendable mention and the people of the state should not forget their sacrifice wading through dirty chest/neck-deep waters, braving insects, and other rodent bites to take them to safer places.
The way the media has blacked out their service stands in stark contrast to the acknowledgment received during the recent tunnel rescue mission in Uttarakhand where the armed forces were personally greeted by the Chief Minister.
Operational Overview: Army And Air Force Deployment
Defence PRO provided us with a detailed breakdown of the armed forces’ operations, specifying the units and locations involved. The 12 Madras unit of the Indian Army, Dakshin Bharat Area, played a pivotal role in areas such as Velachery Railway Station, Manappakam River View Road, Pulidhivakkam, Medavakkam, Puzhudivakkam, and North Chennai. The Air Force Station Tambaram also made significant contributions, conducting air drops in hard-hit areas, delivering essential supplies, and ensuring swift responses to affected regions.
In the aftermath of Cyclone Michaung, critical relief efforts were deployed in both South and North Chennai by the Indian Air Force and Flying Instructors’ School. Two helicopters were actively engaged in providing aid from Medavakkam to Puzhudivakkam metro station, covering eight locations in South Chennai. Simultaneously, in North Chennai, two helicopters delivered essential relief supplies along the route from Manali Petro Chemicals, through the Inner Ring Road, to Nappalayam, spanning eight locations.
Additionally, Air Force Station Tambaram had been a steadfast source of support, with four Chetak helicopters executing air drops in both regions. The relief efforts proved crucial, distributing approximately 400 kg of essential supplies to areas severely affected by the cyclone.
The Air Force efficiently transported food supplies, generously provided by the Tambaram Municipal Corporation, to the below areas within a 30-minute timeframe.
- Kumaran Nagar 3rd Street
- CTO Colony
- CASA GRAND
- FCI Nagar
- IMA Building
- Moovendar Nagar Bharathi Nagar
- Krishna Nagar
Coordinated Efforts Of Various Forces – Army, Navy & Coast Guard
Recognising its role as the primary maritime agency for Safety, Security, and Environment Protection in Indian Waters, the Coast Guard took proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the disaster. These measures included issuing advisories well in advance from 27 November 2023, providing regular weather updates, advising against fishing activities, directing fishing boats to return to the nearest harbours, broadcasting continuous advisories through VHF radio at Coast Guard Radar stations, advising oil handling agencies to relocate rigs/platforms and evacuate as necessary, instructing all ports to shift vessels to safer berths, forming and deploying disaster response teams, and maintaining coordination with relevant authorities for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) assistance.
During the cyclone, a total of 8 Indian Coast Guard ships and 2 aircrafts were deployed to brave rough seas, patrolling the coastal waters of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Their efforts ensured the safe return of approximately 3000 boats to harbour, safeguarding personnel manning oil rigs in the KG basin, and providing guidance to hundreds of merchant vessels in the area. Through persistent dedication, the Indian Coast Guard achieved a remarkable outcome, ensuring zero loss of life and property at sea during Cyclone Michaung.
In parallel, the Defence PRO stated that, the count of people rescued in the operations includes approximately 450 rescued individuals in Pallikaranai, 200 in Madipakkam, 65 in Velachery, and 1200 in Perumbakkam, with efforts still underway and counting.
The Need For Recognition
As the flood-ravaged citizens of Chennai begin to rebuild their lives, it is the duty of the citizens as well as the government in the state to recognise the selfless efforts of the armed forces. The media playing second fiddle to pursue the “all is well” propaganda failed to showcase their contributions and did not share footage showcasing the indomitable spirit and dedication displayed by these unsung heroes.
In the bleakest moments when hope appeared elusive, the Armed Forces emerged as beacons, rescuing stranded individuals and ushering them to safety during their most challenging hours.
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