There was a massive volcano eruption in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo on Saturday. Most of the lava from the eruption has flowed towards Rwanda and only a small stream is trickling towards Goma.
The volcanic eruption followed little warning. It claimed at least 15 lives amid destroying more than 500 homes, as per reports.
This eruption of Mount Nyiragongo sent about 5,000 people fleeing from the city of Goma. Last time Goma saw a volcanic eruption was in 2002.
The Indian Army has helped greatly in rescue and evacuation efforts. The Indian brigade involved in peacekeeping operations in Congo is headquartered in Goma.
Moreover, it accounts for the largest deployment of Indian forces on foreign soil alongside South Sudan.
Indian Army has been playing a crucial role in the evacuation of civilians. UN’s internal security system had alerted other country contingents.
However, a majority of the country contingents including aviation contingents evacuated immediately.
An observation point also helped them by giving real-time updates of the lava flow to the brigade HQs.
Though Goma is home to many UN peacekeepers. But much of the surrounding eastern Congo remains under threat from various armed groups trying to take control of the minerally rich region.
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