Facing the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a vital series of rescue operations in Sri Lanka under the banner of ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu.’ On Sunday, the IAF’s helicopters performed extensive evacuations from the isolated Kotmale area, successfully airlifting 45 stranded individuals, including six critical medical cases and four infants, to Colombo. This significant operation ensured the safety of 12 Indian nationals, a considerable number of foreign nationals, and Sri Lankan citizens affected by the extreme weather.
To bolster the ongoing relief and recovery efforts, the IAF also airlifted 57 Sri Lankan Army personnel into Kotmale. These troops are crucial for managing the challenging conditions and assisting with clearance operations. Furthermore, the IAF facilitated the return of over 400 Indian nationals to India by 8 p.m., with further repatriation flights scheduled. The rescue operations were complex, involving the winching down of a Garud commando to guide passengers safely to a helipad for evacuation. The deployment of a dedicated medical team and the swift airlifting of urgent casualties highlighted the critical nature of the missions. The Indian government, through its High Commission and the Ministry of External Affairs, has pledged continued support, demonstrating solidarity with Sri Lanka. The NDRF is also actively contributing to relief efforts on the ground, addressing the widespread impact of the cyclone and its associated floods and landslides.