India Delivers 27 Tons of Aid to Sri Lanka During Cyclone Ditwah Response Efforts
India has urgently dispatched over 27 tonnes of relief materials to Sri Lanka in response to the destruction wrought by Cyclone Ditwah. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced the arrival of an additional consignment, transported by an Indian Air Force IL-76 aircraft, which landed in Colombo on Saturday carrying vital supplies.
The latest delivery comprised 9 tonnes of relief items and included two Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) teams made up of 80 trained NDRF personnel, equipped for rescue and relief operations in flood-stricken areas. India's assistance has been delivered through both air and sea, with more shipments in preparation.
Sri Lanka sought urgent assistance after the cyclone led to extensive flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage, especially in eastern provinces. The Indian government swiftly activated a rapid deployment plan, sending NDRF teams from Hindon Air Base to Colombo within hours.
India has so far transported nearly 21 tonnes of essential supplies, including tents, blankets, mattresses, dignity kits, and other emergency items to aid displaced populations. Earlier this week, additional NDRF teams, along with four specialised search dogs, were flown in with advanced Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) equipment, such as inflatable rescue boats, hydraulic cutters, medical kits, and satellite communication systems.
As part of Operation Sagar Bandhu, the Indian Air Force employed both C-130 and IL-76 aircraft overnight to deliver aid and personnel. The operation is expanding as Sri Lankan authorities confront severe humanitarian challenges posed by the widespread flooding.
The relief supplies, which include food rations, emergency stores, and rescue gear, are crucial in stabilizing the affected districts and supporting evacuation and recovery efforts.
Reaffirming India's commitment to regional solidarity, the government stated that India "stands firmly with Sri Lanka in this hour of need." Relief operations are expected to intensify as more cargo flights and naval shipments are ready to depart for Colombo.
