Mass Evacuation Operation for Stranded Indians
In a significant rescue operation, at least 400 Indian nationals who were stranded at Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport due to extreme weather conditions caused by Cyclone Ditwah were successfully sent back home on Sunday. The evacuation came as Sri Lanka battled severe flooding and landslides that have claimed hundreds of lives.
Rescue Flights Bring Citizens Home
Approximately 150 Indian citizens were airlifted to Delhi aboard flight C130, while another 250 were transported to Trivandrum on flight IL 76. Both aircraft had originally arrived in Sri Lanka on Saturday carrying crucial food supplies and humanitarian aid for victims of the devastating flash floods that have paralyzed the island nation.
The evacuation effort received high-level attention from Indian officials. Dr. Satyanjal Pandey, the Acting High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, personally visited the stranded compatriots at the Colombo airport on Saturday. The Indian High Commission provided essential supplies including food and water to those in need while assuring them of swift arrangements for their return journey.
Cyclone Aftermath and Emergency Response
Sri Lanka has declared a state of emergency throughout the country following the widespread devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. The disaster has resulted in significant damage to infrastructure and created chaotic conditions for travelers and residents alike.
According to the latest data from Sri Lanka's Disaster Management Centre, at least 212 people have been killed and 218 remain missing since Thursday across the island nation due to cyclone-induced rainfall, floods, and landslides. The severe weather conditions led to widespread flooding, landslides, and massive service disruptions, including numerous flight cancellations.
The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka actively coordinated the evacuation efforts, stating in a social media post: "@Indiainsl is facilitating the swift return home of the Indian passengers stranded in. Evacuation flights by @IAF_MCC and commercial airlines are being facilitated today. Every stranded Indian will reach home at the earliest."
For any Indian citizens in distress, the High Commission has established an emergency contact number: 94 773727832, which is also available for WhatsApp communications.
Regional Impact and Precautionary Measures
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department has been closely monitoring Cyclone Ditwah's trajectory. The cyclonic storm is likely to move nearly northwards parallel to the North Tamil Nadu-Puducherry coasts during the next 24 hours.
As the storm approaches the coastline, the IMD has issued a red alert for north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and adjoining south Andhra Pradesh coasts. The NDRF has deployed teams in Andhra Pradesh's Nellore district as a precautionary measure, with 30 rescuers positioned to respond to any emergencies.
Assistant Commander of NDRF, Pavan, confirmed that "our team is in continuous contact with the district and state administrations" and noted that fortunately, no losses have been reported in India due to the cyclone so far.
