The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is transporting the relief cargo by sea after India refused permission to use its airspace, causing an estimated eight-day delay.

The shipment, sent from NDMA’s Islamabad warehouse, includes tents, blankets, quilts, life jackets, boats, water pumps, lanterns, mats, mosquito nets, baby formula, food supplies, and medicines.

A total of 200 tons is being dispatched via a commercial vessel, with additional consignments scheduled to leave tomorrow.

An urban search-and-rescue team from Pakistan will also depart for Sri Lanka on Wednesday.

Minister of State Azhar Bilal Kayani attended the departure ceremony alongside the Sri Lankan ambassador and defence attaché.

Earlier, PM Shehbaz chaired a review meeting on Pakistan’s relief efforts and directed all relevant bodies to extend maximum assistance.

He said Pakistan stands firmly with the people and government of Sri Lanka in this difficult hour and will support not only rescue operations but also the rehabilitation and reconstruction phases.

Meanwhile, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake phoned the prime minister to express gratitude for Pakistan’s swift solidarity and generous humanitarian response. He noted that Pakistan is among the first countries to step forward after the cyclone.

Prime Minister Shehbaz conveyed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and widespread destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwa and reaffirmed that Pakistan will continue to stand by Sri Lanka until recovery efforts are complete.