India swiftly approved Pakistan's request to use its airspace for a relief flight bound for Sri Lanka. India clarified, countering false claims by Pakistani media, that the decision was based entirely on humanitarian grounds and involved no delay whatsoever.
New Delhi: On humanitarian grounds, India permitted Pakistan to use its airspace for an aircraft carrying relief supplies to Sri Lanka, ensuring timely delivery. Claims made in Pakistani media, suggesting India had denied permission, were explicitly refuted by Indian officials. Officials stated that approval was granted immediately upon receiving the request, considering the humanitarian situation. This step was taken even though Pakistan continues to deny Indian aircraft entry into its airspace.
India's Humanitarian Stance
According to officials, Pakistan requested the use of Indian airspace around 13:00 on Monday. The Pakistani flight was intended to deliver humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka. India promptly evaluated the request and granted approval, taking into account the grave situation in Sri Lanka. Indian officials emphasized that the clearance was given purely on humanitarian grounds, despite Pakistan still maintaining restrictions on Indian airlines using its airspace.
India Refutes Claims by Pakistani Media
Pakistani media had claimed that India rejected Pakistan's request. Indian officials vehemently denied these reports, stating they were factually incorrect. Officials asserted that India does not allow politics to interfere in such sensitive humanitarian situations; instead, it prioritizes assisting countries and people in need.
Deteriorating Situation in Sri Lanka Due to Cyclone Ditwah
Sri Lanka is currently enduring an extremely difficult period due to Cyclone Ditwah. Severe flooding in many parts of the country has severely impacted daily life. At least 334 deaths have been confirmed, and thousands of people have been affected. Water levels are rapidly rising in several areas of the capital, Colombo, and relief and rescue operations are continuously underway. Essential services like transport, electricity, and water have been disrupted, exacerbating the situation.
India's Relief Material Under Operation Sagar Bandhu
India has launched "Operation Sagar Bandhu" to aid Sri Lanka, under which a total of 53 tons of relief material has been dispatched. This includes essential supplies such as 9.5 tons of emergency rations, tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, ready-to-eat meals, medicines, and surgical equipment. Indian Navy ships arrived in Colombo and promptly delivered the relief supplies. Additionally, three Indian Air Force aircraft were deployed to send further aid. The Indian Navy ship Sukanya delivered an additional 12 tons of material to Trincomalee, bringing the total weight of relief supplies to 53 tons.
