Pakistan is facing criticism after photos on social media showed that some of the flood-relief items it sent to Sri Lanka were expired. The aid was meant for people affected by floods and landslides caused by Cyclone Ditwah. The packages included food, medicines, blankets, tents, and other emergency supplies.
Relief reaches Sri Lanka; but problems appear
The Pakistani High Commission in Colombo posted photos online on 30 November 2025, saying the relief material had arrived and would help flood-hit families. But soon after, people on X (formerly Twitter) noticed that many items had expiry dates like “10/2024,” which means they were more than a year out of date.
When Sri Lankan officials checked the supplies, they found some food items and medicines were already expired and could not be used. Officials from Sri Lanka’s disaster-management and foreign-affairs departments raised the issue with Pakistan and expressed strong concern.
Backlash and embarrassment for Pakistan
The reaction online was immediate and harsh. Many people accused Pakistan of disrespecting Sri Lanka by sending expired items instead of proper relief. Some users mocked the shipment, while others called it a “shameful” mistake.
The incident has turned into a diplomatic embarrassment for Pakistan, with critics saying a humanitarian gesture has now damaged its image and credibility.
Sri Lanka’s flood crisis continues
Sri Lanka is currently dealing with severe floods and landslides after Cyclone Ditwah, with many people displaced and in need of help. Other countries have been sending proper, verified aid to support rescue and relief operations.
In this situation, the arrival of unusable, expired supplies from Pakistan has caused frustration among Sri Lankan officials and citizens who were already struggling with the disaster.