Floods brought widespread devastation to Northeast India in June 2025. With rivers breaching banks and landslides cutting off towns, local governments were overwhelmed. In response, the Indian Army launched Operation Jal Rahat-2, a coordinated flood rescue and relief mission across Assam and Manipur.
This military-led humanitarian effort has so far rescued more than 2,500 people, delivered urgent medical supplies, and brought hope to families stranded in submerged regions. As climate disasters increase in frequency and intensity, this mission has highlighted the value of rapid, well-organized relief action.
Operation Jal Rahat-2 Begins Amid Crisis
Operation Jal Rahat-2 was activated following relentless rainfall that disrupted life in key districts across Assam and Manipur. The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) confirmed over 6.7 lakh people have been affected across 21 districts. In Manipur, more than 1.6 lakh residents faced evacuations due to flash floods and landslides, according to EastMojo.
As floodwaters surged, Indian Army and Assam Rifles units mobilized within hours. They launched a multipronged operation to provide relief and save lives, coordinating closely with state authorities and NGOs. In many places, Operation Jal Rahat-2 was the only functioning rescue effort during the early stages of the crisis.
Indian Army’s Role in Flood Response
Operation Jal Rahat-2 involved amphibious vehicles, inflatable boats, UAV surveillance, and satellite communication. Troops used real-time mapping and flood tracking to locate survivors and airlift emergency aid. From Imphal East to Barpeta, the Army carried out round-the-clock operations in challenging conditions.
In some areas, families were rescued from rooftops after being stranded for over 24 hours. Army medics treated injured residents, while engineers built temporary bridges to restore access to marooned areas. The swift deployment of these resources proved critical to the success of the flood response.
Assam Relief: Reaching the Worst-Hit Areas
The flood situation in Assam remained grim, especially in Cachar, Dhemaji, and Morigaon. Entire villages disappeared underwater, with livestock losses and crop damage mounting. Operation Jal Rahat-2’s units reached some of the hardest-hit zones where civil administration could not operate.
In addition to rescue, soldiers delivered dry rations, clean drinking water, baby food, and sanitary kits. Medical teams, part of the same operation, provided primary care to the sick and older people in makeshift shelters. Army spokespersons confirmed daily helicopter drops to relief camps housing thousands.
Manipur: Coordinated Military-Civilian Operations
Manipur saw a spate of landslides that left roadways blocked and communication lines snapped. As part of Operation Jal Rahat-2, army personnel in Thoubal, Churachandpur, and Bishnupur worked with civilian volunteers to clear debris, restore connectivity, and evacuate families to safety.
Over 102 landslides were reported, and many bridges collapsed. Soldiers manually carried food packets across hill tracks and created temporary shelters. With waterborne diseases looming, medical units from the Army conducted vaccination drives and distributed ORS packets.
Smart Tech and Real-Time Decisions in Jal Rahat-2
What made Operation Jal Rahat-2 particularly effective was the use of technology. Drones were flown over flooded villages to map water levels and population clusters. Ground teams used GPS to navigate submerged roads. Satellite phones ensured communication even when towers failed.
Additionally, military engineers built floating platforms to access isolated communities, helping them carry medical supplies and food. This tech-backed disaster management model proved adaptable to the shifting needs on the ground.
Climate Change Worsens Flood Risk in the Northeast
Experts say the severity of the 2025 floods in the Northeast reflects a worrying pattern linked to climate change. Unseasonal, high-intensity rains are now more frequent. Deforestation, hill-cutting, and unplanned urban sprawl add to the vulnerability.
According to Tehelka, these disasters are no longer anomalies—they’re the new normal. While Operation Jal Rahat-2 saved lives, the long-term solution lies in sustainable development, climate-resilient infrastructure, and early warning systems.
Community and NGOs Support Jal Rahat-2 Efforts
The Indian Army wasn’t alone in this effort. Several NGOs including Goonj and SEEDS India played vital roles in coordinating civilian relief. Local communities also stepped up—volunteers cooked in mass kitchens, managed logistics in camps, and distributed clothing and medicines.
In both states, community radios broadcast evacuation alerts, and youth groups helped army units identify older people and disabled residents needing immediate attention. These partnerships amplified the impact of the military operation.
Supporting the Recovery After Operation Jal Rahat-2
As waters begin to recede, the region’s needs are shifting from emergency response to long-term recovery. Families have lost homes, schools have turned into shelters, and farmers face ruined fields. Operation Jal Rahat-2 continues to provide medical services and support, but full recovery will require sustained effort.
You can help by:
- Donating to trusted flood relief organizations
- Sharing verified updates to prevent misinformation
- Volunteering remotely with NGOs coordinating logistics
Every act of support contributes to rebuilding lives. Whether it’s ₹100 or an hour of your time, it makes a difference.
READ MORE: Assam Approves Rs 400Cr Kanaklata Barua University in Gohpur
Lessons from Operation Jal Rahat-2
India’s armed forces have once again proven that they are more than defenders of borders—they’re protectors of life. Operation Jal Rahat-2 has reminded the nation of the importance of coordination, discipline, and swift action during a crisis.
But it has also exposed weaknesses in our infrastructure and disaster management systems. It is time to shift from reactive responses to proactive prevention—before the next monsoon makes headlines.