New Delhi to New Orleans: IAF waiting with relief

Within 48 hours of the US opening doors for international assistance to victims of the Katrina hurricane, India was ready this evening with ...

Within 48 hours of the US opening doors for international assistance to victims of the Katrina hurricane, India was ready this evening with nearly 30 tonnes of aid loaded in an IL-76 aircraft. New Delhi was, however, still waiting for a green signal from Washington before the plane can take off.

In its first ever relief operation to the US, the Air Force plane has been loaded with consignments of ready-to-eat meals, tents and medical supplies including first-aid kits. This, official sources said, was just the first lot.

This consignment was being delayed because a clear message had not come from the US as to where the plane has to land—sources said in all likelihood the plane would leave by Thursday.

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Nearly a million people have been displaced from New Orleans following the devastation caused by Katrina. They are now in various relief camps and so, the destination of IL-76 will have to be determined by US authorities.

The US has to slot the aircraft as there is a rush of relief from some 100 countries which have responded to Washington. This is the first time that India will be ever providing relief to the US.

As of now, no personnel in the form of doctors or paramedics are being sent but this is not being ruled out. It may be noted that India and US had agreed to cooperate with each in disaster management issues during Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit.

New Delhi has also offered to send water purification units, Army medical units, doctors experienced in treatment of water-borne diseases. But discussions are on with the US to ensure that aid is sent in line with the requirements on ground.

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Besides this, India has also given $5 million through the Red Cross for relief efforts.