Worst cyclone in Sri Lanka: Indian govt becomes obstacle in Pakistan’s relief operation
Islamabad: Sri Lanka is facing the worst cyclone but the Indian government has become an obstacle in Pakistan’s relief operation.
According to Kashmir Media Service, India has refused to allow a Pakistani plane carrying relief supplies for the people affected by the cyclone in Sri Lanka to pass through its airspace.
The Indian government has obstructed Pakistan’s rescue operation in Sri Lanka by closing its airspace. ‘Cyclone Ditwah’ caused devastation in the coastal areas of Sri Lanka on November 28. Hundreds of people were killed and injured due to the cyclone in Sri Lanka, while a large number have been displaced.
The government and people of Pakistan are expressing complete solidarity with their Sri Lankan brothers in this difficult time. After the cyclone, special instructions have been given by Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir to provide all possible assistance to Sri Lanka.
The 45-member Urban Search and Rescue Team of the Pakistan Army is ready to leave for Sri Lanka via C-130 aircraft with the help of NDMA and Pakistan Air Force but India has refused to grant air permission for this humanitarian mission.
NDMA has also tried to send 100 tons of relief goods through commercial cargo planes. The departure of these planes is also subject to the closure of Indian airspace. Pakistan’s relief consignment and rescue team will have to take an alternative route, which will require more time. Due to the closure of Indian airspace, 100 tons of relief goods will reach Sri Lanka by sea in 8 days.
The relief supplies include rescue boats, pumps, life jackets, tents, blankets, milk, food and medicines. Pakistan Navy’s PNS SAIF, which was present in Colombo for the International Felt Review 2025, is already engaged in relief activities.
Despite all the obstacles, Pakistan will continue to send relief supplies to help the flood victims of Sri Lanka. The Indian government’s decision to close the airspace in this sudden situation is the worst example of inhumanity.
