BAF helicopters to photograph cyclone-hit areas 

The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) has readied six cargo planes and 29 helicopters to conduct post-disaster operations in cyclone Amphan-hit coastal areas.      

The airplanes will visit, assess and conduct relief operations to disaster-struck areas. The MI-17 helicopters have been equipped with cameras to capture photos and videos which will help with post-cyclone measures, said an ISPR press release Wednesday. 

The press release says the Bangladesh Air Force is always ready – with its manpower and resources – to assist the Ministry of Water Resources, Civil Administration, PWD, and Local Administration in dealing with any situation including quick rescue, relief and medical assistance.   

A disaster management cell has also been set up at BAF Base Bashar. Moreover, operations rooms have been opened at all BAF bases to provide round-the-clock assistance for pre and post-disaster management.  

The Air Force has set up Barishal Airfield as a forward staging area to assist in post-Amphan disaster management. Additionally, BAF plans to distribute relief items in 1,000 suitable packets, by parachute, to the people of the affected areas. 

The Bangladesh Air Force provides assistance in dealing with national disasters. This time, BAF is offering emergency air transport and medical evacuation assistance in aid to civil administration.