The IAF Sri Lanka evacuation mission has successfully brought back more than 300 Indian nationals stranded in Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah caused major disruptions and severe damage across the island. On Sunday evening, Indian Air Force heavy-lift aircraft reached Thiruvananthapuram airport, concluding a crucial rescue mission under challenging conditions. This significant humanitarian effort once again highlighted India’s commitment to the safety of its citizens and neighbours, reinforcing the importance of the IAF Sri Lanka evacuation.
IAF’s Quick Humanitarian Response Saves Hundreds
According to Defence officials, IAF’s IL-76 and C-130J aircraft were initially deployed to deliver rescue material and NDRF teams to Sri Lanka. Soon after, the aircraft were redirected to evacuate stranded Indian nationals, ensuring a smooth and timely IAF Sri Lanka evacuation.
The Indian Air Force has been actively carrying out Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions under Operation Sagar Bandhu, providing crucial support to Sri Lanka as the country battles landslides and floods triggered by Cyclone Ditwah.
Hybrid Rescue Missions in Disaster-Hit Regions
IAF helicopters also conducted several missions to airlift 57 Sri Lankan Army personnel from Diyathalawa and Colombo to Kotmale, a region completely cut off due to massive landslides.
A special hybrid rescue operation was carried out where Garud Commandos were dropped near groups of stranded civilians. These commandos guided people to designated landing points from where IAF helicopters could safely pick them up. Through these missions, around 55 civilians, including Indians, Sri Lankans, and foreign nationals, were evacuated as part of the IAF Sri Lanka evacuation.
The two helicopters deployed have flown over 12 sorties so far and continue to operate round the clock to assist in ongoing rescue efforts.
FAQs
Q1: What is the IAF Sri Lanka evacuation?
The IAF Sri Lanka evacuation is a large-scale rescue mission conducted by the Indian Air Force to safely bring back Indian nationals stranded in Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah.
Q2: How many people were rescued during the IAF Sri Lanka evacuation?
More than 300 Indian nationals, along with 55 other civilians, were rescued as part of the IAF Sri Lanka evacuation.
Q3: Which IAF aircraft were used in the evacuation mission?
The rescue operation deployed IL-76 and C-130J heavy-lift aircraft along with IAF helicopters for ground extraction.
Q4: What is Operation Sagar Bandhu?
Operation Sagar Bandhu is India’s humanitarian support initiative that provides help to Sri Lanka during crises such as natural disasters.
