Lieutenant Governor felicitates Army’s 17 RR for relief work during Kishtwar flash floods

Kishtwar, Sep 27: In a solemn felicitation ceremony organised at Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) at Srinagar, the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha felicitated 17 Rashtriya Rifles (MARATHA LI) with the banner of Pride of Jammu & Kashmir for their exemplary relief work conducted during the devastating cloudburst and landslide which occurred on 14 August 2025 at remote Chisoti village, located in the Paddar region of Kishtwar.

A statement issued said that the tireless efforts of the Rashtriya Rifles not only saved lives but also restored normalcy in record time, earning the gratitude of thousands.

It said that at the time of the tragedy, nearly 1000 people, including local villagers and pilgrims enroute Machail Mata Yatra, were present in the area. In the face of this calamity, 17 Rashtriya Rifles (MARATHA LI) immediately responded with unmatched swiftness and courage. Under the leadership of Colonel Arun, Commanding Officer, relief columns were mobilised within hours. Major Taranjeet and Nb Sub Yamgar, along with their rescue teams, reached the site and saved several lives from the debris. A dedicated Medical Detachment, led by Captain Naman Gusain, was promptly established at Atholi to provide immediate treatment to the injured.

It also said that over the course of one week, the battalion carried out relentless rescue and relief operations amidst heavy rains, during which they saved 41 lives from the debris, treated 117 injured with medical aid, provided first aid to nearly 950 civilians, safely escorted 4000 stranded pilgrims to secure locations, and facilitated the construction of a Class 5 bridge by Army Engineers, thereby restoring vital connectivity to Machail village.

The statement added that the Battalion also deployed earth-moving equipment, drilling machines, and ATVs to accelerate evacuation and debris clearance. Assuming operational control of the rescue mission, they effectively coordinated with the civil administration, police, and CAPF, ensuring seamless relief operations in the disaster-hit region. Their tireless efforts not only saved lives but also restored normalcy in record time, earning the gratitude of thousands.

This recognition stands as a testimony to the selfless dedication and unwavering commitment of the Indian Army to the people of Jammu & Kashmir, statement held.