'Haven't seen such care in 60 years': Venezuelans praise Indian Army's 24x7 field hospital after twin quakes

In the aftermath of the devastating twin earthquakes that hit northern Venezuela, survivors are expressing gratitude to the Indian Army medical team providing round-the-clock treatment at a field hospital set up under India's humanitarian mission, Operation Amistad.

The 7.2 and 7.5-magnitude earthquakes, the strongest to hit Venezuela in more than a century, have killed over 1,700 people, injured thousands and displaced tens of thousands.

'I haven't seen such care in 60 years'

Videos released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) show emotional scenes at the Indian Army's field hospital at the International La Rinconada Racetrack in Caracas.

"I am deeply grateful. I haven't seen such medical attention in 60 years," an elderly patient said after receiving treatment.

The woman also thanked the Indian medical team for arranging an ambulance to take her home after her treatment.

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"They told me I don't need to thank them because we are one family. We are one people, and that is what matters most," she said.

Another resident said the free treatment and medicines had come as a huge relief to families struggling after the disaster.

"I did not have to pay anything for these medicines. The hospital that you have installed here has been very helpful for the local community. I am thankful to your country," the resident said.

Venezuelan leaders visit Indian field hospital

The Indian relief mission has also received appreciation from the Venezuelan government.

Foreign Minister Andrea Corao Faria and Vice Health Minister visited the field hospital to review relief operations and thank the Indian team for its swift response.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Indian Army doctors were working tirelessly to extend "a caring hand to those impacted by the earthquake."

India established the field hospital after the Indian Air Force airlifted 66 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Caracas aboard two C-17 Globemaster aircraft, completing a 23-hour, 14,000-kilometre journey from New Delhi.

The relief package includes a fully functional Indian Army field hospital, more than 35 tonnes of essential medicines, advanced medical equipment and two BHISHM Cubes—portable hospital units capable of treating up to 300 emergency patients each.