Army, IAF launch Operation Kargil to clear landslide over Phuktal river

The Indian Army and the Air Force (IAF) have launched an operation in Zanskar subdivision of Kargil district in Jammu and Kashmir in the wake of a 700-metre long landslide over Phuktal river. The landslide that happened in January has led to the creation of an artificial lake extending more than 10km and threatens to erupt in a flash flood.

Defence sources said that that lake is still frozen and the idea is to facilitate ground reconnaissance for controlled blasting to create a water channel and thus assist the district authorities which have expressed their inability to handle the dangerous situation on its own.

While the administration has already alerted people to move to safer places as the situation raises concerns for those living in low-lying areas of Leh and Kargil.

While the area falls en route the famous Chadar trek that attracts tourists from across the world, the Nimo-Bazgo hydroelectric project in the adjoining Leh district also gets the water supply from Phuktal river.

A source said that despite the poor weather conditions and terrain limitations, so far the Army and IAF have been able to set up of a camp just short of the landslide spot. "The camp consists of troops from Ladakh Scouts Mountaineering Team, Engineers, communication and medical experts of the armed forces besides setting up an ad hoc air traffic control system." he said, adding that an advance light helicopter helipad has been established at Phuktal Gompa and a helipad at the camp location itself for the multi-purpose Chetak helicopter.

The construction of 1160-metre foot track from the camp to landslide area has also been undertaken, he said.

Besides the army and the air force, various agencies of central and state government including the Border Roads Organisation, Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment, National Hydro Power Corporation, Central Water Commission, Survey of India and Central Institute for Mining & Fuel Research are part of the action plan.