Massive airlift to save thousands caught by monsoon rains
Almasalla Travel News – Ashraf El gedawy – WASHINGTON, D.C. – What has been described as the "the single biggest rescue operation involving helicopters anywhere in the world," remains stymied today by monsoon rains that continue to fall in northeast India.
The rains have been so heavy that authorities cannot even be certain of the number of deaths caused by flooding and landslides, but they fear the toll will be at least 1,000. Thousands remain trapped in Badrinath, a small town with a temple that draws countless pilgrims and tourists. The main affected area is in Uttarakhand state, which borders China and Nepal.
Nepal also is experiencing death and destruction from the rains.
Nearly 100,000 already have been rescued by non-stop helicopter airlifts. According to the BBC India’s air force has been operating 115 flights a day in a desperate race to remove survivors from the continuing peril.
Plans for a mass cremation of the dead have been stalled by the monsoon conditions, which Indian officials say are the worst in more than 80 years. More devastation is likely, since the monsoon season generally continues into September.
Source : e turbo news
