Did the IAF Successfully Evacuate 104 Indian Nationals from Cyclone Ditwah-Stricken Sri Lanka?
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Synopsis
The Indian Air Force has successfully evacuated 104 nationals stranded in Sri Lanka due to the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. This operation showcases India's commitment to supporting its citizens overseas during times of crisis. Learn about the details of this significant rescue mission and India's ongoing relief efforts.
Key Takeaways
- 104 Indian nationals successfully evacuated from Sri Lanka.
- Operation Sagar Bandhu demonstrates India's commitment to its citizens.
- Continuous rain and landslides affected the region.
- The Indian Air Force played a crucial role in rescuing stranded individuals.
- Ongoing relief efforts are vital for those impacted by the cyclone.
Colombo, Dec 1 (NationPress) The final group of 104 Indian nationals, previously trapped in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka, has been successfully evacuated and returned home on Monday, as announced by the Indian mission in Colombo.
In a statement, the Indian High Commission in Colombo reported: "The last group of Indian travelers stuck at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo has safely arrived home. The 104 evacuees landed in Thiruvananthapuram aboard an Indian Air Force aircraft at approximately 6:30 a.m. today."
In addition to the evacuations, India has ramped up its rescue and relief efforts within the island.
On Sunday, the Indian Air Force executed a hybrid rescue operation under the banner of Operation Sagar Bandhu, aimed at rescuing individuals stranded in a restricted area of Sri Lanka.
The IAF elaborated in a statement on X that a Garud commando was lowered to assist the group in reaching a helipad in Kotmale, from where 24 individuals, including Indians, foreign nationals, and Sri Lankans, were evacuated to Colombo.
“IAF helicopters were deployed to carry out a hybrid rescue mission for the extraction of stranded individuals from a restricted zone. A Garud commando was winched down to guide the group through a cross-country path to a pre-briefed helipad in Kotmale, from where 24 evacuees were brought to Colombo,” the IAF stated.
“Simultaneously, three critical medical cases were airlifted to Colombo for urgent treatment. Earlier, five teams comprising 40 troops from the Sri Lankan Army were airlifted from the Diyathalawa Army Camp to the landslide-affected Kotmale area to assist with relief operations,” it noted.
Earlier today, the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka mentioned: “A family of four trapped on a rooftop was successfully rescued by a Chetak helicopter from INS Vikrant on November 29, 2025. They were safely airlifted to a secure location. Operation Sagar Bandhu continues as India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka.”
Meanwhile, personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have also intensified relief efforts across Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka has been facing continuous rain, flash floods, and landslides as a result of Cyclone Ditwah and the ensuing weather conditions.
Point of View
This operation exemplifies India's unwavering commitment to its citizens in times of crisis. The successful evacuation highlights the effectiveness of coordinated rescue efforts and the importance of international solidarity in the face of natural disasters. The focus now shifts to ongoing relief operations as Sri Lanka grapples with the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Operation Sagar Bandhu?
Operation Sagar Bandhu is a rescue mission carried out by the Indian Air Force aimed at assisting stranded Indian nationals and providing support to Sri Lanka during humanitarian crises.
How many Indians were evacuated from Sri Lanka?
A total of 104 Indian nationals were evacuated from Sri Lanka as part of the rescue efforts following Cyclone Ditwah.
What challenges did Sri Lanka face due to Cyclone Ditwah?
Sri Lanka experienced relentless rain, flash floods, and landslides as a result of Cyclone Ditwah, leading to significant disruptions and humanitarian needs.
What other assistance is India providing to Sri Lanka?
In addition to evacuations, India is enhancing rescue and relief operations to aid those affected by the cyclone and support local relief efforts.
What role did the NDRF play in this situation?
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has intensified its relief operations in Sri Lanka to support recovery efforts following the cyclone's impact.
