Gorakhpur: In a swift and carefully coordinated operation, the Indian Air Force rescued two children who had been stranded overnight atop a water tank in Gorakhpur district.
The children were left stuck on the elevated structure late Saturday after the access ladder reportedly broke, leaving them unable to descend. Local authorities sought urgent assistance, prompting deployment of a Mi-17 V5 helicopter from the Air Force’s Central Air Command.
At first light, the helicopter hovered above the tank as trained personnel were lowered using a winch system. The children were then safely secured and lifted one at a time into the aircraft, bringing an end to the tense situation.
Officials said the mission was executed in close coordination between district authorities and the Air Force, with constant communication ensuring the safety of the operation. The rescue was completed early Sunday morning, and both children were reported to be unharmed.
The Mi-17 V5 helicopter, widely used by the Air Force for transport and emergency missions, has frequently been deployed in similar rescue operations during floods, natural disasters, and other emergencies, highlighting its critical role in civilian aid.