The Indian Air Force (IAF) executed a large-scale rescue mission, codenamed ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu,’ to aid those stranded in Sri Lanka’s Kotmale region following Cyclone Ditwah. The region was rendered inaccessible due to road damage, necessitating air evacuation. On Sunday, IAF helicopters successfully airlifted 45 individuals to Colombo, including six critically injured patients and four infants. The group comprised a diverse mix of nationalities, including 12 Indian citizens, several foreign nationals, and Sri Lankan residents.
Reinforcing the disaster response, the IAF also transported 57 Sri Lankan Army personnel into the affected zone, empowering local authorities with much-needed manpower for rescue and recovery operations. In a significant effort to repatriate its citizens, the IAF airlifted over 400 Indians back to India by 8 p.m., with plans for additional flights. The nature of the rescue missions involved precise planning and execution, with a Garud commando guiding evacuees through difficult terrain to a secure helipad. This operation, alongside the immediate medical evacuation of critical casualties and the deployment of a specialized medical team, underscored the IAF’s commitment. The Indian government has reiterated its unwavering support to Sri Lanka through diplomatic channels and ongoing relief operations, with the NDRF actively participating in the on-ground efforts to mitigate the cyclone’s impact.