The government underscored that the decision was purely humanitarian, made despite the ongoing ban Pakistan has imposed on Indian airlines using its airspace, part of restrictions introduced after heightened tensions earlier this year. Officials described accusations circulating in segments of Pakistani media — alleging refusal of overflight permission — as “baseless” and “misleading.”
The aid flight is part of broader relief efforts coordinated as disaster-response continues in Sri Lanka following devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. The island nation faces widespread flooding, with hundreds of fatalities and thousands displaced across affected regions as rescue and relief operations intensify.
Under its relief operations, New Delhi has dispatched over 50 tonnes of supplies to Sri Lanka. Naval ships and air force aircraft have delivered rations, tents, hygiene kits, medicines, and emergency equipment. Specialized urban search and rescue personnel have been deployed to assist ground operations. The swift approval for the Pakistani flight underscores India’s commitment to facilitating international humanitarian assistance, setting aside political tensions in favour of regional solidarity.