1,600 Airmen, 550 Naval Personnel, Hundreds of Soldiers Mobilized For Disaster Rescue

COLOMBO (News 1st); As Sri Lanka battles severe flooding and landslides caused by relentless rains, the country’s armed forces have launched a massive rescue and relief operation to protect lives and assist affected communities.

The Sri Lanka Air Force has deployed six helicopters to strategic locations for emergency rescue missions.

Air Force Spokesperson Group Captain Eranga Giganage confirmed that these helicopters have been stationed at Hingurakgoda, Anuradhapura, Ratmalana, and Weerawila Air Force bases.

He added that 1,600 Air Force personnel across 24 camps are on standby for rapid response.

Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Navy has positioned 137 teams equipped with boats across the island to assist in evacuations and deliver relief.

Navy Spokesperson Commander Buddhika Sampath stated that over 550 naval personnel are actively engaged in these operations.

The Sri Lanka Army has also pledged full readiness, with troops already intervening in rescue efforts.

Army Spokesperson Brigadier Varuna Gamage emphasized that operations to save lives and provide relief are ongoing without interruption.