SAF planes to assist Nepal quake relief efforts land in Kathmandu after diversion

SINGAPORE — The three Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) C-130s planes carrying personnel and equipment for relief efforts in Nepal landed in Kathmandu today (April 28), a day after they were diverted to other airports due to congestion at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.

The C-130s arrived at the Nepalese capital with 80 men and women from the Singapore Civil Defence Force, Singapore Police Force, the SAF, equipment and aid. The C-130s will also fly home a group of Singaporeans later today.

In an update on Facebook this afternoon, Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said "many challenges still lie ahead" for the Nepalese but he is glad that the Singapore teams are on the ground to assist them in this difficult time.

"The scale of devastation is great but from all accounts, the people of Nepal have shown exemplary fortitude, bearing their suffering and loss with stoicism and dignity. We all hope that they will continue to find the strength to recover from this horrific earthquake," said Dr Ng.

On Saturday, Nepal was struck by its most devastating earthquake in 80 years. The official death toll has risen above 4,000 so far. 35 countries have pledged assistance.

Dr Ng said different teams will have to work with each other and the local authorities to deliver help effectively. The Changi Regional HADR Coordination Centre advance team will link up with the Nepalese Armed Forces to offer assistance in coordinating relief efforts, he added.