Following the impact of Cyclone Ditwah, numerous flights to Chennai have been canceled, leaving around 300 travelers stranded at Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport. This group includes approximately 150 Tamils returning to India from Dubai via Sri Lanka.
Passengers have reported being left without adequate food, water, and basic amenities due to operational disruptions caused by the adverse weather conditions. In response to the plight of those affected, Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has instructed the Secretary of the Public Department to coordinate with the Indian Embassy in Colombo. Authorities are in discussions with officials from the Indian High Commission to ensure the safe return of the stranded Tamils. The government has also requested timely assistance for travelers facing difficulties at the airport.
Meanwhile, India has extended its humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka, which has been severely affected by Cyclone Ditwah. Under Operation Sagar Bandhu, an Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft delivered approximately 12 tons of relief supplies to Colombo on Saturday. This aid is in addition to previous shipments brought by Indian Navy ships Vikrant and Udaygiri, which included 4.5 tons of dry rations, 2 tons of fresh rations, and other essential supplies for families impacted by the storm.
Reaffirming its commitment to assist its neighboring country, the Indian High Commission in Colombo stated that Operation Sagar Bandhu continues to provide immediate humanitarian aid and disaster relief (HADR). The mission emphasized that during this challenging time, India stands firmly with the people of Sri Lanka, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to the 'Neighborhood First' policy.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences for the lives lost due to the cyclone and confirmed the dispatch of emergency assistance. He conveyed heartfelt sympathies to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah, stating that India has sent immediate relief supplies and crucial HADR support.
