The Swiss army has stepped in to transport water to thousands of thirsty farm animals across alpine meadows. Lower rainfall this year has forced farmers to call in the army to help refresh thirsty animals. A two-week operation is underway with three Super Puma helicopters flying in to fill the near-empty tanks used by farmers for their cows, pigs and goats.
Farmer Jacques Ruffeau, whose herd of 130 cattle needs 10,000 liters of water a day, said it had been a painful year marked by a lack of rain.
Six helicopters were mobilized in an attempt to help farmers who are expecting a tough autumn with a lack of fodder. The work of the Swiss military will continue until August 19. About 400,000 liters of water will be delivered during the operation. A similar action was held during the droughts in 2015 and 2018.
Photo by Anshu A on Unsplash
