New Delhi: INS Airavat arrived at the port of Antsiranana (Madagascar) on January 30 to undertake relief operations after floods from heavy rains led to a crisis in the region.

Upon arrival, the Commanding Officer, INS Airavat called on General Rasolofomanana, Commander, Military Area, Antsiranana and other senior officers from the Military Area.

The relief operations to be undertaken by INS Airavat will be the first by a foreign nation after heavy rains lashed Madagascar and inundated the low lying farmlands leading to massive loss of life and property.

INS Airavat immediately began to provide medical aid as required by local authorities and IN medical team were moved to the affected areas. IN Ship on Mission Based Deployment carry relief material in the form of HADR bricks. This enables ships on deployment to respond rapidly to any emergent situation. The relief material will be handed over to the Government of Madagascar. Madagascar Prime Minister is expected to oversee the assistance at the port of Antsiranana on February 1.