India has strongly refuted claims circulating in Pakistani media regarding the denial of airspace for a Pakistani aid flight bound for cyclone-ravaged Sri Lanka. Officials have termed these allegations as “baseless and misleading,” emphasizing that Islamabad’s request for overflight clearance was processed with exceptional speed. The Pakistani authorities submitted their request at approximately 1:00 PM IST on Monday, seeking same-day approval to traverse Indian airspace. Given the humanitarian nature of the mission to deliver vital relief supplies to Sri Lanka, India expedited the process. The clearance was officially granted and communicated to Pakistani officials by 5:30 PM IST on the same day, marking a swift turnaround of just over four hours. This swift approval was extended on humanitarian grounds, notwithstanding Pakistan’s existing ban on Indian flights using its airspace. Reports indicate that the Pakistani media’s narrative constitutes typical propaganda, peddling misinformation. All overflight and transit requests are handled according to established international protocols. Sri Lanka is currently grappling with devastating landslides and floods exacerbated by Cyclone Ditwah, which has tragically claimed over 300 lives. India, under ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu,’ has been actively providing comprehensive assistance to the affected nation. Prime Minister Modi conveyed his deep sorrow over the fatalities and pledged India’s unwavering support. To date, India has dispatched 53 tonnes of relief materials to Sri Lanka via air and sea since November 28. Furthermore, over 2,000 Indian citizens stranded on the island have been repatriated. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams remain engaged in crucial search and rescue operations in severely impacted and isolated areas, aiding flood-affected families and ensuring their immediate safety. These combined efforts have resulted in the rescue and assistance of over 150 individuals, with operations ongoing.
