In response to the devastation caused by Cyclonic Storm Ditwah, Pakistan is dispatching a 200-ton shipment of emergency relief supplies to Sri Lanka, a consignment expected to arrive within two days, officials confirmed Thursday.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry today announced the aid package, stating the decision was made following his on-the-ground assessment in Colombo and discussions with Sri Lankan officials. He emphasized that the additional support is crucial to address the medium-term requirements of the affected populace.
The comprehensive shipment, which was dispatched by sea and is due by December 13, contains a wide array of essential items. The cargo includes temporary shelters like tents, bedding such as blankets and quilts, as well as mosquito nets, camping lamps, mats, life jackets, inflatable boats, and dewatering pumps.
Critical medical supplies and nutritional provisions, including various medicines, milk powder, and ready-to-use therapeutic food, are also part of the humanitarian assistance package.
The minister highlighted that Pakistan”s commitment extends beyond material aid, with Pakistan Navy ships and aircraft already actively participating in ongoing relief operations. These naval assets are assisting in rescue, transportation, and other emergency tasks in close coordination with local Sri Lankan authorities in the most severely impacted regions.
Chaudhry”s visit to the island nation was undertaken on the specific instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to express Pakistan”s solidarity. He reiterated that his country stands prepared to offer continued assistance to help Sri Lanka recover from the widespread humanitarian and infrastructural damage caused by the storm.