Uttar Pradesh: Air Force Conducts Midnight Rescue Operation for Children Trapped on Water Tank in Gorakhpur

Two children stranded atop a water tank in Siddharth Nagar in Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh were rescued in a dramatic overnight operation involving local authorities and the Indian Air Force. The incident occurred after the ladder attached to the elevated tank was found damaged, leaving the children trapped for hours without a safe way to descend. Following an urgent request from the Uttar Pradesh government, rescue teams coordinated efforts to ensure the children’s safety. An Indian Air Force helicopter was later deployed from Gorakhpur to carry out the mission. The successful rescue drew praise from residents and officials who closely monitored the tense operation throughout the night.

Responding swiftly to the emergency, the Indian Air Force deployed an Mi-17 V5 helicopter from the Central Air Command to conduct the rescue mission in Siddharthnagar. The aircraft reached the location and safely airlifted both children from the top of the water tank without any reported injuries. Officials said the operation highlighted the quick coordination between the state administration and defence authorities during emergencies. The rescue mission also reflected the Indian Air Force’s preparedness and commitment to humanitarian assistance and disaster response. Authorities later confirmed that both children were safe and had been reunited with their families after the successful operation.

On a request from state government authorities, an IAF Mi 17 V5 of Central Air Command (CAC) was deployed to rescue two stranded children, who were stuck on top of a water tank in Sidharth Nagar in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. The children were stranded in the night as the ladder of… pic.twitter.com/dZ2D4shbQS

— CAC, IAF (@CAC_CPRO) May 3, 2026

The incident attracted widespread attention on social media, with many users praising the rescue teams for their timely response and professionalism. A user commented on X post of Central Air Command, "Thanks, But what they were doing on the top of water tank in night?" Another user commented, "Great job by IAF," while a third user wrote, "Thank you for your service." The successful mission once again showcased the Indian Air Force’s ability to respond quickly during critical situations and reinforced the importance of coordinated emergency services in saving lives during unexpected crises.