Colombo/New Delhi, Nov 29 (NationPress) As Cyclone Ditwah wreaks havoc across Sri Lanka, causing widespread destruction, voices of support are resonating from various quarters of the Indian political landscape. Notable Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor utilized X to emphasize the human toll and India’s proactive measures, highlighting the urgent need for assistance for those affected by the cyclone.

In an emotional message, Tharoor recounted his communication with the Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, regarding the plight of stranded Thiruvananthapuram constituents unable to leave Colombo Airport due to limited flight options. He was relieved to learn that the Indian Air Force was preparing to initiate evacuation flights at 5 AM the next day to transport Indian nationals, who have registered at the Indian High Commission’s control room, back to safety, including those in Thiruvananthapuram. Family members can take comfort knowing that aid is on the way!

Tharoor also conveyed his gratitude for India’s swift deployment of aid, stating, “I’m pleased to hear that the Indian government is deploying helicopters from the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, currently stationed in Colombo, to aid rescue and relief efforts in response to Cyclone Ditwah. The people of India are united in support of our Sri Lankan neighbors during this critical time.”

He urged local hospitality as flight diversions occurred: “I’m distressed to learn that five international flights have been redirected from Colombo to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport due to the adverse weather conditions caused by Cyclone Ditwah. I call upon all small and medium hotels in my constituency to step up and accommodate the stranded travelers.”

In a remarkable display of neighborly support, India has activated its armed forces and diplomatic resources to assist thousands affected by the cyclone, which has led to heavy rainfall, severe flooding, and catastrophic landslides across the island nation.

On Friday, Indian Navy helicopters conducted daring rescue missions in the hardest-hit areas, airlifting stranded individuals to safety.

“Numerous individuals were rescued by Indian Navy helicopter operations in cyclone-impacted locations in Sri Lanka today,” shared Randhir Jaislwal, Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, India, on his X account.

Two Chetak helicopters joined INS Vikrant, which is presently in Colombo for the International Fleet Review 2025, collaborating with members of the Lankan Air Force for search and rescue missions, with Heron UAVs from the carrier assisting in operations.

Meanwhile, the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and frontline frigate INS Udaigiri, which had recently docked in Colombo on November 25-26 for a scheduled visit, were promptly reassigned for humanitarian assistance.

These two warships delivered the initial batch of urgently required relief supplies under the newly initiated ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’ – a mission that reflects India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and its Vision MAHASAGAR outreach to maritime neighbors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow and solidarity in a social media message on Friday: “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. My thoughts and prayers are with all affected families for their safety and recovery.”

He also noted that India “is prepared to offer additional aid and support as the situation develops,” emphasizing the enduring ties between the two nations.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar formally announced the operation: “Operation Sagar Bandhu is underway. INS Vikrant and INS Udaigiri have delivered relief supplies in Colombo. Further actions are in progress.”

Expressions of gratitude flowed from across the Palk Strait, with former Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Mohamed Uvais Mohamed Ali Sabry posting on X: “Thank you, India, for the immediate cyclone relief provided through Operation Sagar Bandhu. Sri Lanka remembers with appreciation the vital assistance you extended during the 2022 economic crisis. Your friendship continues to be invaluable.”

For hundreds of Indian nationals stranded at Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport due to flight cancellations, hope arrives with the commencement of Indian Air Force evacuation flights at 5 AM on Saturday, as confirmed by Tharoor's coordination with High Commissioner Santosh Jha.

The human cost continues to rise. Sri Lanka’s Disaster Management Centre reported 56 confirmed fatalities and 21 individuals still unaccounted for as of Friday evening, with at least 46 deaths recorded in the last 72 hours alone.

More than 43,991 people from 12,313 families have been affected by the severe weather.

In reaction, the Sri Lankan government proclaimed Friday a public holiday except for essential services. As the cyclone’s impact persists over the island nation, India’s swift and determined actions – from helicopter rescues and warship-delivered aid to forthcoming evacuation flights – stand as a testament to compassion and capability in South Asia’s moment of crisis.