Chennai: Close to 300 Indian passengers, including about 150 Tamilians travelling from Dubai to Chennai via Sri Lanka, have been stranded at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport for the past three days after Cyclone Ditwah disrupted flight operations and forced multiple cancellations.

Stranded passengers have complained of inadequate food, water, and essential amenities as the airport continues to grapple with severe weather conditions triggered by the cyclone.

Responding to the situation, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin directed the Public Department Secretary to coordinate with the Indian Embassy in Colombo. State officials have since held discussions with the Indian High Commission to facilitate the safe return of Tamilians stuck at the airport. The government has also requested immediate assistance for all Indian passengers facing hardships.

Meanwhile, India has intensified its humanitarian support to Sri Lanka, which has been severely impacted by Cyclone Ditwah. An Indian Air Force C-130J aircraft carrying nearly 12 tonnes of relief materials landed in Colombo on Saturday under Operation Sagar Bandhu. This follows earlier consignments delivered by INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri, which included dry rations, fresh supplies, and essential aid for storm-affected families.

The Indian High Commission in Colombo reaffirmed New Delhi’s commitment to supporting its neighbour, stating that Operation Sagar Bandhu continues to deliver urgent Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). “In this challenging moment, India stands firmly with the people of Sri Lanka, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the Neighbourhood First policy,” the mission said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier expressed condolences over the loss of lives in Sri Lanka due to the cyclone and confirmed India’s immediate support. “My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah... India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital HADR support,” he said.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Ditwah, positioned near Sri Lanka and the southwest Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify slightly and move towards the North Tamil Nadu–Puducherry coast by early November 30. The IMD has warned of extremely heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the risk of urban flooding across Tamil Nadu, south Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry.