ICG rescues 170 people in Flood Relief Operations in Gujarat and Dadra & Nagar Haveli

By Raju Vernekar

Mumbai, July 25, 2026: Demonstrating its unwavering commitment, the Indian Coast Guard Air Station (ICGAS), Daman, recently rescued nearly 170 people stranded in floods at different locations in Gujarat and Dadra & Nagar Haveli.

 The operations were part of the forefront of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.

 Since the onset of severe flooding following incessant rainfall from the night July 22, 2026, ICGAS Daman, in close coordination with the civil administration, State Disaster Response agencies, and local authorities, mounted sustained rescue operations under extremely challenging weather conditions. Through a combination of helicopter sorties and Disaster Relief Team (DRT) deployments, the Indian Coast Guard successfully rescued stranded civilians from multiple flood-affected locations.

 The rescue operations were carried out in difficult terrain, fast-flowing floodwaters, and areas where road connectivity was completely severed. Despite adverse weather conditions, Coast Guard personnel displayed exceptional courage, professionalism, and swift response, ensuring the safe evacuation of vulnerable civilians.

 The major rescue operations undertaken are as follows: Khanvel, Silvassa (July 22/23):    A Disaster Relief Team conducted midnight rescue operations, saving 05 persons stranded due to rapidly rising floodwaters. Kadaiya Coastal Area (July 23):         03 fishermen stranded along the flooded riverbank were safely rescued by the Disaster Relief Team.

 Welspun Industrial Area (July 23/24 ):  During overnight operations, the Disaster Relief Team rescued 60 persons trapped in an industrial area that had become inaccessible due to severe flooding and complete road disruption.  Aero Fiber Pvt Ltd and surrounding area (July 23):    07 persons stranded inside a bus submerged in floodwaters were successfully evacuated to safety.  Dongri: The Disaster Relief Team rescued 10 persons isolated by floodwaters.

Valsad/Pardi (July 23 ):An Indian Coast Guard helicopter executed a challenging rescue mission in adverse weather conditions, safely airlifting 04 stranded persons. Reliance Industries Area (July 23/24 ): During midnight rescue operations, the Disaster Relief Team evacuated 08 persons from flood-affected areas. Avadh Society Area (July 23/24 ): 10 persons were rescued during overnight operations, including a nine-month pregnant woman and a woman suffering from respiratory distress, both requiring urgent evacuation. Mendar Village, Navsari District (July 24 & 25): In one of the largest rescue missions of the operation, 63 persons were airlifted to safety by two Coast Guard Chetak helicopters. The rescued individuals included one person experiencing severe chest pain, necessitating immediate medical evacuation.

 Throughout the ongoing relief efforts, Indian Coast Guard aircrew and Disaster Relief Teams  continued to operate relentlessly in hazardous conditions, overcoming strong winds, reduced visibility, submerged infrastructure, and swift flood currents to reach stranded civilians.

The operations underscores the Indian Coast Guard’s preparedness, operational capability, and steadfast commitment to humanitarian assistance during natural calamities. Working in seamless coordination with civil authorities, ICGAS Daman remains fully committed to providing timely assistance and continues to monitor the evolving flood situation, with assets maintained at high readiness for further rescue missions whenever required. The Indian Coast Guard reiterates its commitment to the motto “Vayam Rakshamah” (We Protect) by standing ready to safeguard lives and provide assistance whenever the nation calls.