In a powerful display of regional solidarity and humanity, India has launched Operation Sagar Bandhu to provide urgent assistance to Sri Lanka after the catastrophic impact of Cyclone Ditwah. The deadly storm ravaged the island nation late last week, leaving a trail of destruction that has shocked the world. With over 300 lives lost, hundreds still missing, and nearly 400,000 people displaced due to severe flooding and landslides, Sri Lanka is facing one of its worst natural disasters in recent years.
Responding swiftly under its Neighbourhood First policy, New Delhi mobilized the Indian Navy, Air Force, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to deliver critical rescue and relief support within hours of Sri Lanka’s request for help. The mission reinforces India’s commitment to standing by its closest neighbours in times of crisis.
Humanitarian Aid Arrives by Sea and Air
Indian Navy ships were among the first responders, docking at Colombo and Trincomalee with over 53 tonnes of essential relief materials. These included:
- Packaged rations and ready-to-eat meals
- Medical aid and emergency medicines
- Tents for displaced families
- Warm blankets and sleeping mats
The Indian Air Force also deployed transport aircraft to quickly ferry supplies and relief personnel to affected zones. Airlift operations helped restore logistical access to regions cut off due to blocked roads and submerged bridges.
Evacuations & Life-Saving Missions in Remote Areas
On the ground, the situation remains critical, particularly in rural belts battered by the cyclone’s wrath. Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopters played a crucial role in reaching isolated communities where roads are inaccessible due to landslides and flooding.
One of the standout rescue achievements was the evacuation of a one-month-old infant and the child’s family near Puttalam, where rising waters had completely surrounded their home. Thanks to timely coordination, the family was safely airlifted to a medical facility for further care.
NDRF teams are assisting Sri Lankan authorities in search-and-rescue operations, pulling survivors to safety while braving treacherous terrain and extreme weather challenges. Their focus remains on locating the missing and providing rapid medical response to the injured.
Sri Lanka Battles Severe Aftermath
Cyclone Ditwah unleashed powerful winds and torrential rains, triggering:
- Deadly landslides across multiple districts
- Overflowing rivers resulting in flash floods
- Widespread power and communication failures
- Heavy infrastructure damage, including homes and road networks
Thousands of families remain in emergency shelters as authorities assess long-term challenges such as disease prevention, restoration of utilities, and rebuilding livelihoods.
India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy in Action
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences to the people of Sri Lanka and reaffirmed India’s resolve to provide sustained support throughout the recovery phase.
“We will continue to stand by Sri Lanka as a close friend and partner,” he said, emphasizing that regional cooperation remains a cornerstone of India’s foreign policy.
India’s relief mission has been widely appreciated in Sri Lanka, strengthening the historic bond between the two nations rooted in cultural, economic, and strategic ties.
What Comes Next?
Relief teams predict that rescue operations will continue for several days, while rebuilding could take months. Medical support, sanitation measures, and temporary housing remain top priorities to protect vulnerable populations from further risk.
Indian officials confirmed that additional assistance will be dispatched based on field assessments, including:
- More medical personnel
- Supplies for children and elderly care
- Restoration equipment for power and water supply
- Engineering support to rebuild damaged infrastructure
- A Moment of Unity Amid Crisis
Cyclone Ditwah has left Sri Lanka grappling with immense loss, but the quick international response especially from India offers a strong ray of hope. Operation Sagar Bandhu stands as a testament to India’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian values and regional partnerships.
As recovery efforts continue, the world watches with solidarity and support for Sri Lanka’s resilience. For now, every rescued life and every delivered ration symbolizes a step toward healing and rebuilding together.
India’s assistance will remain ongoing, ensuring that the affected communities in Sri Lanka receive the care, resources, and support they urgently need in this critical period.
Related News: Cyclone Ditwah Nears India After Devastating Sri Lanka: Tamil Nadu & Andhra on High Alert with IMD Warning of Heavy Rains
