**Title:** Indian Nationals Evacuated from Colombo Amid Cyclone Disruptions
**Meta Description:** Over 400 Indian nationals stranded in Colombo due to Cyclone Ditwah were evacuated by the Indian Air Force, ensuring their safe return home.
**URL Slug:** indian-nationals-evacuated-colombo-cyclone-ditwah
**Headline:** Indian Air Force Evacuates Over 400 Nationals Stranded in Colombo Due to Cyclone Ditwah
In a significant operation, the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully evacuated more than 400 Indian nationals stranded at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport due to flight disruptions caused by Cyclone Ditwah. The evacuation took place on Sunday, following severe weather conditions that led to widespread flooding and landslides across Sri Lanka.
Sri Lankan officials reported that approximately 150 passengers were transported to Delhi on a C-130 aircraft, while another 250 individuals were airlifted to Thiruvananthapuram using an IL-76. Notably, both IAF aircraft had arrived in Colombo the previous day, delivering essential food supplies and humanitarian aid to communities affected by the cyclone.
As heavy rains and flooding paralyzed services throughout Sri Lanka, India’s Acting High Commissioner, Dr. Satyanjal Pandey, visited the stranded citizens at the airport on Saturday. The High Commission provided food and water to those affected and assured them that New Delhi was actively coordinating their immediate evacuation.
In a statement on social media, the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka announced, “@Indiainsl is facilitating the swift return home of the Indian passengers stranded in Sri Lanka. Evacuation flights by @IAF_MCC and commercial airlines are being facilitated today. Every stranded Indian will reach home at the earliest.” Additionally, an emergency helpline was established for Indians needing assistance throughout the country.
The situation in Sri Lanka remains critical, as the government declared a state of emergency following the cyclone’s devastation. The Disaster Management Centre reported at least 212 fatalities and 218 individuals missing as of early Sunday, highlighting the severe impact of the extreme weather on the island nation, a popular destination for Indian tourists.
Authorities from both India and Sri Lanka have committed to continuing evacuation efforts until all stranded Indian nationals are safely returned home.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: How many Indian nationals were evacuated from Colombo due to Cyclone Ditwah?**
A: Over 400 Indian nationals were evacuated from Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport by the Indian Air Force following disruptions caused by Cyclone Ditwah.