Background
The April 2015 Nepal earthquake, commonly referred to as the Himalayan earthquake, struck at 11:56 NST on April 25. With a moment magnitude (Mw) of 7.8, it registered a maximum intensity of IX on the Mercalli scale, indicating a violent level of shaking that caused extensive damage across the region. The earthquake's epicenter was located approximately 34 kilometers (21 miles) east-southeast of Lamjung, a district in central Nepal, and it originated at a shallow depth of about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) beneath the Earth's surface.
This catastrophic event is recognized as the most powerful earthquake to hit Nepal since the notable 1934 Nepal–Bihar earthquake, which had a profound impact on the region. The 2015 quake led to significant loss of life, with nearly 8,900 fatalities recorded. The extensive destruction also resulted in injuries to over 22,000 individuals and left approximately 2.8 million people displaced from their homes. Affected areas witnessed urgent humanitarian needs for food, water, shelter, and medical assistance as the country grappled with the immediate aftermath of the disaster.
In addition to the human toll, the earthquake caused substantial infrastructure damage, leading to the collapse of thousands of buildings, including homes, schools, and hospitals. Cultural heritage sites, such as ancient temples and historic landmarks, were also severely affected, representing an irreplaceable loss to Nepal's rich cultural heritage. The impact of the earthquake extended far beyond the initial devastation, setting back Nepal's development and reconstruction efforts by years, necessitating a massive international relief and recovery operation. The scale and complexity of the disaster emphasized the need for coordinated rescue efforts and long-term rebuilding strategies, which underscored the resilience of the Nepali people and the importance of global solidarity in times of crisis.
Tragic Avalanche on Mount Everest
On April 25, 2015, a powerful earthquake struck Nepal, leading to a devastating avalanche on Mount Everest. The geological upheaval caused the avalanche to sweep through the mountain, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 17 climbers. This catastrophic event marked a grim milestone, surpassing the death toll of the infamous 2014 Mount Everest avalanche, which previously held the record for the most lethal incident on the mountain.
In the wake of the avalanche, an Indian army mountaineering team undertook a crucial recovery operation at Everest Base Camp. The dedicated team was able to recover the bodies of 19 climbers, which highlighted the harrowing impact of the disaster on both local and international mountaineering communities. Additionally, they successfully rescued approximately 61 stranded climbers who found themselves cut off due to the considerable snow and ice displacements caused by the avalanche.
In response to the urgent need for rescue operations, the Indian Air Force mobilized helicopters that swiftly arrived at Mount Everest on the morning of April 26. Their efforts facilitated the transportation of stranded climbers to safety, showcasing the vital role of military assistance in disaster response scenarios. The operations not only aimed at rescuing climbers but also highlighted the broader implications of safety measures in high-altitude mountaineering conducts, calling for a reassessment of climbing protocols and emergency preparedness in the wake of natural disasters. This incident served as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with climbing at such high altitudes and the importance of coordinated rescue efforts in the face of unforeseen calamities.
Aircraft Used in Operation Maitri
In the wake of the devastating earthquake in Nepal, the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force launched Operation Maitri to facilitate swift and effective rescue and relief efforts. To oversee these operations, the Indian government dispatched Major-General JS Sandhu, who provided leadership and coordination on the ground. The airlift and rescue operations heavily relied on a fleet of sophisticated aircraft, demonstrating the capabilities of the Indian Air Force in crisis situations.
Among the key aircraft deployed, the Ilyushin Il-76 played a significant role in transporting large quantities of humanitarian supplies and equipment to remote areas affected by the disaster. The C-130J Hercules, known for its versatility and ability to operate in challenging terrains, had at least two of its units actively involved in transporting relief materials and assisting in rescue operations. In addition, the C-17 Globemaster, a heavy-lift transport aircraft with unmatched capacity, showcased its operational prowess with at least four units deployed, moving both personnel and critical supplies efficiently.
Helicopters were also an integral part of the operation, particularly for reaching isolated regions. The Advanced Light Helicopters were deployed to carry out reconnaissance missions and transport essential supplies to remote villages cut off from traditional routes. Furthermore, up to eight Mi-17 helicopters played a vital role in the air-dropping of relief materials, ensuring that aid could reach those in most need despite logistical challenges posed by the damaged infrastructure. These helicopters were essential in navigating the difficult terrain of Nepal, delivering both immediate assistance to victims and supplies to support ongoing recovery efforts.
Operation Maitri exemplifies the Indian Armed Forces' commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, leveraging a mix of transport aircraft and helicopters to provide timely support to the people of Nepal during a critical time. The coordinated use of these aircraft not only highlights the operational readiness of the Indian military but also emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in the face of natural disasters.
Immediate Response to the Nepal Earthquake
In the aftermath of the catastrophic earthquake that struck Nepal, India swiftly took action as Nepal's closest neighbor. Within a remarkable timeframe of just six to seven hours following the disaster, Prime Minister Narendra Modi ordered the immediate deployment of relief and rescue teams to the affected areas. This prompt response underscored India's commitment to providing support in times of crisis, reflecting the strong historical ties and neighborly relations between the two nations.
The Indian government's response was spearheaded by Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar, who efficiently coordinated logistics and operations. He announced the dispatch of six additional teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), emphasizing that these forces would be equipped and prepared to assist in rescue operations. To maximize the efficacy of the response, India aimed not only to focus on rescuing its own nationals but also to extend its humanitarian assistance to citizens of other countries impacted by the earthquake.
In a show of solidarity, Air India reduced ticket prices on flights from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Varanasi to Kathmandu. This initiative allowed many more individuals to travel for relief efforts and facilitated the transportation of essential supplies. Moreover, Air India committed to carrying relief materials on its flights, providing a vital logistics channel to deliver aid swiftly to those in desperate need. Such measures highlight the importance of international cooperation and the role that neighboring countries can play in disaster response scenarios, ensuring that timely assistance reaches those who need it most.
Timeline of Operation Maitri
On April 25, 2015, a devastating earthquake struck Nepal, prompting an immediate response from India. By midday, ten teams from India's National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) arrived in Nepal, consisting of around 450 personnel, including trained search and rescue dogs. In a robust quick response effort, ten additional Indian Air Force aircraft departed for Nepal carrying essential aid. A total of 43 tons of relief materials, including tents and food supply, were dispatched to address the immediate needs of the affected population.
Operation Maitri officially commenced on April 26, 2015, marking the beginning of a large-scale humanitarian operation. The Indian Air Force played a crucial role in evacuating over 500 Indian citizens from Nepal during the late night and into the morning of April 26. In a coordinated effort, a total of ten flights were planned for that Sunday, facilitating the airlifting of essential personnel such as army forward hospitals, medical teams, and engineering task forces, along with substantial supplies including water, food, and medical equipment. By the end of Sunday, the Indian government had sent an additional 10 tons of blankets, 50 tons of water, and 22 tons of food to Kathmandu. The operation expanded with nearly 1,000 NDRF personnel being deployed and a large-scale evacuation process for stranded Indian citizens utilizing 35 buses, which operated along two routes at the Indo-Nepal border. Additionally, India issued goodwill visas to foreign nationals stuck in Nepal, ensuring their safe passage back home. The Indian Railways contributed by supplying 100,000 bottles of drinking water via the Air Force, establishing a routine to deliver this quantity daily.
By April 27, the situation had progressed, with the Indian Air Force successfully evacuating 1,935 Indian citizens from Nepal through extensive air sorties. The Indian Army deployed six out of eighteen planned medical teams to participate in relief efforts. Furthermore, ten engineer task forces were dispatched with heavy machinery to clear roads and debris. This included 10,000 blankets and 1,000 tents intended for distribution, as well as oxygen cylinders to aid medical teams treating casualties in Nepal.
On April 28, with weather conditions improving, the efforts of the Indian Air Force and Army shifted towards reaching remote areas in Nepal. They continued to transport critical supplies to Kathmandu while assisting in the evacuation of stranded individuals. A specialized 41-member medical team, along with vital medical supplies, was dispatched from Rajasthan to strengthen the medical response. The Sashastra Seema Bal contributed by sending over three dozen vehicles, including ambulances and water tankers, from its border camps. In a testament to India’s commitment to aid, an additional 220 tons of food packets, 50 tons of water, 2 tons of medicines, 40 tents, and 1,400 blankets were sent to further support Nepal's recovery efforts. The operation underscored the importance of international solidarity in times of crisis and highlighted India's commitment to aid its neighboring nation during a critical time.