Indian Air Force Rescues Stranded Nationals in Cyclone-Hit Sri Lanka

The Indian Air Force has successfully rescued numerous stranded nationals, including a Pakistani citizen, in Sri Lanka following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. As part of the humanitarian effort named Operation Sagar Bandhu, Mi-17 helicopters airlifted people from various countries affected by the cyclone, which has claimed over 200 lives and left many missing.

Cyclone Ditwah has wreaked havoc across Sri Lanka, leading to extensive flooding and landslides. The storm intensified heavy rainfall, submerging towns and damaging infrastructure. As of March 5, 2024, the Sri Lanka Disaster Management Centre reported that at least 212 people have died, with 218 individuals still unaccounted for after the cyclone struck on March 1, 2024.

Rescue Operations Underway

In response to the crisis, the Indian government deployed two urban search and rescue teams, comprising 80 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force. The focus was on providing immediate assistance to the Sri Lankan authorities and ensuring the safe evacuation of stranded individuals.

During the first phase of Operations Sagar Bandhu, the Indian Air Force evacuated 24 passengers from various nations, including two from Germany, four from South Africa, two from Slovenia, and two from the United Kingdom. Among these, 12 Indian nationals and five Sri Lankans were also rescued. In the subsequent phase, the rescue efforts included a Pakistani national alongside citizens from Poland, Belarus, Iran, Australia, and Bangladesh. Notably, four infants were among those airlifted to safety.

The rescue missions involved complex operations, including the deployment of Garud commandos, who were winched down to guide evacuees through difficult terrain to a designated helipad in Kotmale. From there, the group was transported to Colombo, where they received necessary assistance.

Broader Humanitarian Response

As relief operations progressed, the Sri Lankan Army also contributed significantly by airlifting 40 troops from the Diyathalawa Army Camp to the landslide-affected regions. This collaborative effort highlights the international commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis emerging from Cyclone Ditwah.

In addition, the Indian Air Force airlifted three critically injured casualties to Colombo for immediate medical attention, underscoring the urgent need for healthcare support in the wake of the cyclone. Earlier, around 400 Indian nationals stranded at Colombo Airport were successfully returned home as part of coordinated evacuation efforts.

The swift response from India marks a reaffirmation of regional solidarity, guided by the principle of “Neighbourhood First.” As recovery efforts continue, the focus remains on providing aid to those impacted by one of the most severe weather events to hit Sri Lanka in recent years.