In response to the severe devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka, the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu,’ a comprehensive rescue and evacuation initiative. On Sunday, IAF helicopters successfully extracted 45 individuals from the cut-off Kotmale region, transporting them to Colombo. The rescued group included a significant number of foreign nationals, 12 Indian citizens, and local Sri Lankans, with special attention given to four infants and six critical casualties requiring immediate medical care. The operation highlighted the IAF’s swift response capabilities and its close coordination with Sri Lankan authorities.
Beyond civilian rescue, the IAF played a crucial role in augmenting on-ground relief capabilities by airlifting 57 Sri Lankan Army personnel into the disaster-affected Kotmale area. These troops are vital for ongoing rescue and debris clearance efforts. The IAF also deployed medical teams and essential equipment, including the Bhishm capsule, and managed to repatriate over 400 Indian nationals to India by evening, with more flights anticipated. The complexity of the rescue was evident in a specific operation where a Garud commando was deployed to guide passengers through challenging terrain to a helipad for extraction. This operation, along with the airlifting of critical patients and Sri Lankan Army support teams, showcased a multi-faceted approach to disaster management. The Indian government, through the Ministry of External Affairs and the High Commission in Sri Lanka, has affirmed its continued support, emphasizing the spirit of ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’ and solidarity with Sri Lanka during its time of crisis. The NDRF is also actively engaged in widespread relief efforts.