Pakistan sends 200 tons of aid to Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwa

Pakistan has dispatched 200 tons of humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka to support victims of Cyclone Ditwa, which caused widespread flooding, destroyed thousands of homes, and left scores of people dead or missing.

On the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and with support from the Chief of Army Staff, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) arranged a sea shipment carrying tents, blankets, quilts, life jackets, rescue boats, de-watering pumps, lamps, sleeping mats, mosquito nets, infant milk, ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF), and essential medicines. Humanitarian partners, including Al Khidmat Foundation, contributed to the consignment.

NDMA said the shipment was rerouted by sea due to India denying overflight clearance, causing a minor delay. The aid is expected to reach Sri Lanka within eight days.

India preventing humanitarian assistance reaching cyclone-hit Sri Lanka: FO

A send-off ceremony in Islamabad was attended by the Sri Lankan Ambassador, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kiyani, senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, NDMA, and media representatives.

Kiyani praised NDMA for its swift and coordinated response despite logistical challenges, while the Sri Lankan Ambassador expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s timely support.

NDMA reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to assisting friendly nations during crises and pledged continued support to Sri Lanka in its recovery and rehabilitation efforts.