New Delhi: India has deployed extensive humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka after the island nation was hit by heavy floods caused by a tropical cyclone system. Acting swiftly under its principle of supporting regional partners in times of crisis, India initiated a major relief mission to help authorities in Colombo tackle the situation on the ground.
The relief effort, termed “Operation Sagar Bandhu,” includes the deployment of 80 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF). The specialists, divided into two fully equipped teams, are trained for high risk rescue operations in disaster affected areas.
Alongside the personnel, India has sent four trained rescue dogs to assist in locating stranded or missing individuals in flood hit zones.
Large Quantity of Relief and Rescue Supplies Sent
As part of the humanitarian airlift, India has provided:
- 21 tonnes of relief material, including essential supplies
- 8 tonnes of specialised rescue equipment
- Inflatable rescue boats
- Hydraulic cutting tools for clearing debris
- Emergency communication instruments
- Medical first aid kits and other safety gear
The relief packages are designed to support urgent evacuations, medical needs and temporary rehabilitation efforts in the worst affected localities.
IAF Aircraft Mobilised for Quick Delivery
The emergency supplies and rescue teams were loaded at Hindon Air Base near Delhi and transported using Indian Air Force IL 76 and C 130 aircraft — aircraft commonly used for swift humanitarian missions due to their high cargo carrying capacity.
Officials stated that the mission was launched immediately after Sri Lanka reported widespread flooding and requested support. Rapid mobilisation ensured that response teams reached the island in the shortest possible time.
Strengthening Regional Humanitarian Cooperation
India continues to prioritise disaster relief cooperation with neighbouring countries, especially within the Indian Ocean Region. In recent years, New Delhi has repeatedly extended assistance during natural emergencies under various “Sagar” missions, reinforcing its role as a reliable first responder in the region.
Operation Sagar Bandhu further highlights India’s commitment to working closely with Sri Lanka in disaster management, climate resilience and humanitarian support systems.
Ongoing Coordination with Sri Lankan Authorities
Indian officials are in regular communication with Sri Lanka’s disaster management agencies to ensure that deployed teams and supplies are directed to the areas with greatest need. Rescue personnel are expected to undertake evacuation efforts, assist in clearing flood hit routes and support local authorities in restoring essential connectivity.
No timeline has been specified yet for the completion of operations, as the situation remains dynamic with ongoing rainfall and water logging in multiple districts.
India has reiterated that it remains ready to provide additional assistance depending on Sri Lanka’s evolving requirements.
