Maldivian initiates to send 3.8 tons of aid to Sri Lanka

National airline, Maldivian, along with two private entities, has decided to jointly send 3.8 tons of essential relief items to Sri Lanka following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah.

Maldivian announced on social media today that they are collaborating with The Mahaldheeb Foundation and the Meegaath Hajj and Umrah Group on this initiative.

"As the national airline, it is our duty to contribute to providing assistance to those in need during such difficult circumstances. This joint effort symbolizes that care and responsibility," Maldivian stated.

In addition to sending the essential items, Maldivian has also scheduled special flights to Sri Lanka using its largest aircraft, the Airbus A330, today and next Tuesday.

Yesterday, Sri Lankan media reported that foreign aid received so far totals USD 6.5 million, with the Maldives being the largest single donor nation reported.

The Maldivian government donated USD 50,000 and 25,000 cases of canned fish (1.2 million cans) to the Sri Lankan government.

Maldivian business owners, including the Sun Company and the Villa Group, along with several mid-level entrepreneurs, have provided significant financial aid. The total aid from the Maldivian government, telethon, and private donors combined reached USD 2.4 million (MVR 37 million).

Maldivian residents in Sri Lanka and the Maldivian Embassy in Colombo have also organized relief efforts to assist the Sri Lankan people.

The cyclone has been described as the most devastating disaster Sri Lanka has faced since the 2004 Tsunami, with over 600 people dead and nearly 200 missing, leaving hundreds of thousands displaced.