Pak Army and NDMA launch joint relief effort for cyclone-hit Sri Lanka
NDMA airlifts 100 tons of emergency supplies and deploys Pak Army's 45-member rescue unit: PNS SAIF delivers food, medical kits and equipment as Cyclone Ditwah devastates communities
Pakistan has launched a comprehensive humanitarian relief operation to support Sri Lanka as the island nation grapples with devastating floods triggered by Cyclone Ditwah and relentless monsoon rains, 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Sunday.
Acting on the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has finalised arrangements to dispatch the first consignment of humanitarian aid, alongside a 45-member Urban Search and Rescue team deployed with the support of the Pakistan Army.
A C-130 aircraft will carry 100 tons of relief supplies from Nur Khan Air Base, with NDMA Chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider supervising the operation.
The cargo includes rescue boats, water pumps, life jackets, tents, blankets, food items, milk and essential medicines. NDMA also plans to send a fully equipped field hospital to reinforce emergency medical support for the affected communities.
Officials said Pakistan will continue providing humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka as recovery needs evolve.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Navy Ship SAIF, currently berthed in Colombo for the International Fleet Review-25, has initiated humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations for flood-hit areas.
The vessel handed over food staples, ready-to-eat meals, dry rations, first-aid kits, emergency medicines and equipment to Sri Lankan authorities to support ongoing national relief efforts.
The Navy said it remains prepared to extend further assistance as required.
The rapid response, it added, demonstrates Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability and solidarity with friendly nations in moments of crisis.