Indian Navy Deploys INS Vikrant for Sri Lanka’s Flood Relief Mission

India has stepped in to assist flood-hit Sri Lanka with the deployment of its flagship aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, as the island nation grapples with one of its worst weather emergencies in recent years. Officials confirmed on Friday that the Indian Navy’s indigenous carrier will support ongoing rescue and relief operations after Cyclonic Storm Ditwah triggered massive flooding, landslides, and widespread destruction.

Sri Lanka has been reeling under the impact of Ditwah, which made landfall near the eastern Trincomalee region earlier this week. The storm brought relentless rainfall, submerging large swathes of the country and displacing thousands. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) reported that at least 56 people have died, while 21 others remain missing as search and rescue efforts continue. The intensity of the crisis forced the government to declare Friday a public holiday for all but essential services.

INS Vikrant had arrived in Colombo earlier this week for a scheduled port call on November 25–26, ahead of its participation in the International Fleet Review 2025, slated for November 30. However, as Sri Lanka’s flood situation worsened, authorities formally requested India’s assistance, seeking the aircraft carrier’s helicopters and onboard resources for critical rescue operations.

The Indian Ministry of Defence confirmed that Vikrant’s aircraft and crew will help transport stranded civilians, deliver relief materials, and support the island’s overstretched emergency responders. The move underscores India’s commitment to regional humanitarian assistance, particularly during natural disasters affecting neighbouring nations.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka continues to face escalating challenges. Over 43,000 people from more than 12,000 families have been affected by the extreme weather, officials said. The central Matale district recorded an astonishing 540 mm of rainfall in just 24 hours—one of the heaviest in recent memory.

Authorities have issued urgent evacuation warnings for residents living in low-lying northern parts of Colombo, especially along the swelling Kelani River. The irrigation department cautioned that water levels may surpass those seen during the devastating 2016 floods. “We expect the Kelani River’s water levels to exceed previous records,” Director General Ajith Gunasekara said, urging people to safeguard essential documents and move to higher ground.

With rain forecasts remaining severe, Sri Lanka’s emergency agencies, backed by support from India and other partners, are racing against time to prevent further loss of life. INS Vikrant’s deployment marks a major addition to the relief operations, offering advanced aerial capabilities and logistical support at a moment when the nation needs it most.