Building Collapses Moments After Army Helicopter Rescues 22 CRPF Jawans, 3 Civilians in Punjab
Chandigarh, 27th August 2025: Seven districts of Punjab are reeling under floods triggered by continuous rains, and in one of the most dramatic rescue operations, the Indian Army airlifted 22 CRPF personnel and three civilians from a collapsing building at Madhopur Headworks on Wednesday.
The rescue, carried out by an Army Aviation helicopter, took place under extremely dangerous conditions as the building was surrounded by rising floodwaters and at imminent risk of collapse. According to officials, the helicopter landed on the roof of the dilapidated structure to evacuate those trapped.
Just moments after the helicopter took off with the stranded group, the front portion of the building crumbled and was swallowed by floodwaters. Despite the looming danger, Army personnel continued the mission until every individual was safely evacuated.
The Indian Army later shared visuals of the high-risk operation on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“Indian Army Aviation undertook a high-risk helicopter rescue operation, evacuating stranded civilians and CRPF personnel from a building surrounded by raging floodwaters and at imminent risk of collapse at Madhopur Headworks, Punjab. Braving challenging weather and rapidly rising waters, the team’s swift and fearless response ensured every life was brought to safety.”
The Army added that at dawn, pilots launched a rescue mission that “tested nerves, skill and determination.” They emphasized that bringing the helicopter down on a structure already on the verge of collapse required the “highest level of flying skills and unmatched bravery.”
Officials highlighted the chilling reminder of the risks involved, as the very building where the helicopter had landed collapsed shortly after the evacuation.
Reiterating its commitment, the Army posted, “Any Mission, Any Time, Any Where.”
