Indian Navy helicopters engage in rescue operation

Two Indian Navy helicopters rescued eight people trapped by floodwaters in Pannala, as India stepped up support for Sri Lanka’s ongoing disaster relief efforts.

Officials said that four Indian helicopters are currently involved in rescue missions across the country, including two operating from the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. The aircraft conducted multiple sorties in the Pannala area, where rising waters had cut off access to several homes. The rescued individuals were safely moved to secure locations and handed over to local authorities.

Indian air assets are working in coordination with the Sri Lanka Air Force, Navy, Army, Police, and other first responders to carry out evacuations, deliver emergency supplies, and assist communities affected by flooding across the island.