A devastating tropical cyclone, Detwah, struck Sri Lanka’s coastal regions on November 28, causing widespread destruction, leaving many dead, injured, and thousands displaced. In this hour of crisis, the Government and people of Pakistan expressed full solidarity with their Sri Lankan brothers and immediately planned a comprehensive relief operation.
The Prime Minister of Pakistan and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir issued special directives to dispatch all possible assistance without delay. A 45-member Pakistan Army Urban Search and Rescue team, supported by the NDMA and Pakistan Air Force, was fully prepared to depart for Sri Lanka aboard a C-130 aircraft. This team had also performed exceptionally during the earthquake response in Türkiye.
However, Pakistan’s humanitarian mission faced a major hurdle when the Indian government refused to grant overflight permission. This act of hostility and narrow-mindedness by the Modi administration not only obstructed Pakistan’s relief efforts but also endangered the lives of those in need across the region.
The NDMA also attempted to send 100 tons of relief goods via commercial cargo aircraft, but India’s airspace blockade caused further delays. As a result, the relief supplies will now reach Sri Lanka by sea via an alternative route, taking approximately eight days. The aid package includes rescue boats, pumps, life jackets, tents, blankets, milk, food items, and medicines.
The Pakistan Navy’s PNS Saif, already present in Colombo for the International Fleet Review 2025, has begun assisting in relief operations.
Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment that despite all obstacles, it will continue delivering humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka’s flood-affected people. India’s decision to block airspace in such a critical moment stands as a stark example of inhumanity and hostility.
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