A total of 234 stranded passengers was airlifted by the Indian Air Force from Udampur to Leh on February 27.

Due to the recent snowfall and inclement weather in Leh and Kargil sector, many civilians were stranded in Jammu region. Indian Air Force operated its special aircraft IL-76 popularly called as Gajraj to airlift the stranded passengers on requisition by J&K Government.

The spokesperson told that Air Force Station Udhampur was the staging base for this rescue activity. Special arrangements were made by Air Force Station Udhampur for security and Marshalling of stranded passengers which included ladies and children into the technical area. 

The local administration had been in constant liaison with ATC Air Force Station, Udhampur and their officials for arrival and departure details of the IL-76 so that no inconvenience is caused to the passengers.