India steps up to aid nationals stranded by cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka

Hundreds of Indian citizens found themselves stranded at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo on Saturday as Cyclone Ditwah battered Sri Lanka, causing severe flight disruptions and grounding flights across the country. In response, the High Commission of India in Colombo quickly set up an emergency help desk to assist passengers with food, water, shelter, and travel guidance.

“@IndiainSL is assisting stranded Indian passengers at Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo. In the wake of severe air traffic disruptions, Indian passengers facing difficulties are being provided food, water and other assistance,” the mission tweeted.

The stranded Indians were among thousands affected as the cyclone caused widespread flooding, landslides, and damage to nearly 15,000 homes, forcing more than 44,000 people into temporary shelters.

With the main access roads under water in central districts like Kandy, many travelers were left stuck at the airport without options to leave safely.

To support evacuation and relief efforts, India dispatched two planeloads of humanitarian aid, carrying over 20 tonnes of essential supplies along with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

The teams are assisting Sri Lankan authorities in search-and-rescue operations while also prioritizing the welfare of stranded Indian citizens.

Indian Navy assets, including INS Vikrant, have been deployed to help with emergency operations, including airlifting those trapped in flood-affected areas. Meanwhile, Indian personnel at the airport are coordinating with local authorities to ensure stranded passengers receive immediate assistance until flights resume.

Officials said the focus remains on providing safe shelter, food, water, and timely evacuation for all Indian nationals affected by the cyclone. “Operation Sagar Bandhu is standing strong with the people of Sri Lanka, especially our fellow citizens stranded due to the cyclone,” the High Commission said.

As Cyclone Ditwah moves toward northern India, the Indian mission continues to monitor the situation, ensuring that citizens in Sri Lanka are supported until normal travel and safety conditions are restored.