IAF keeps choppers ready to assist Jammu and Kashmir government in rescue operations

SRINAGAR: Indian Air Force has kept its helicopters ready to assist the Jammu and Kashmir government in rescue and relief operations in the flood-affected areas of the state.

"We have asked the IAF to keep its men and machines on the stand by for rescue and relief operations in flood- affected areas," Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Rohit Kansal told PTI today.

He said, however, bad weather and incessant downpour has not allowed use of helicopters so far.

Kansal said the administration is monitoring the flood situation in Kashmir valley closely and necessary steps to provide relief to the affected people were being initiated.

Heavy rains have caused floods in many parts of the state which has left 20 persons dead so far with fate of 45 others, who were washed away in a bus in Rajouri district yesterday, not known.