In a swift response to the devastating Cyclone Ditwah that has claimed 56 lives in Sri Lanka, India has launched Operation Sagar Bandhu, deploying its naval assets including aircraft carrier INS Vikrant to deliver critical humanitarian aid to its maritime neighbor.
India's Immediate Response to Sri Lanka Crisis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt condolences on Friday to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost loved ones to the catastrophic cyclone. Through a post on social media platform X, PM Modi stated: "My heartfelt condolences to the people of Sri Lanka who have lost their loved ones due to Cyclone Ditwah. I pray for the safety, comfort and swift recovery of all affected families."
The Indian leader emphasized that in solidarity with our closest maritime neighbour, India has urgently dispatched relief materials and vital HADR support under Operation Sagar Bandhu. He further assured that India stands ready to provide additional assistance as the situation evolves, guided by the country's Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR.
Operation Sagar Bandhu: Strategic Humanitarian Mission
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed the commencement of Operation Sagar Bandhu, noting that INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri have already handed over relief material at Colombo, with further assistance measures currently underway.
This humanitarian mission represents a significant demonstration of India's commitment to regional solidarity in the Indian Ocean. The operation underscores New Delhi's Neighbourhood First policy while highlighting India's growing capabilities in regional disaster response. The strategic deployment of INS Vikrant, India's indigenous aircraft carrier, particularly emphasizes the nation's maritime prowess in providing timely assistance during emergencies.
This initiative builds upon India's previous HADR missions, including Operation Samudra Maitri during Cyclone Idai in 2019, establishing a pattern of reliable regional leadership during natural disasters.
Cyclone Ditwah's Devastating Impact in Sri Lanka
The situation in Sri Lanka remains critical as the country battles the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. Official reports confirm 56 fatalities with 21 individuals still missing, creating an atmosphere of urgency across the island nation.
Over 43,900 people from 12,313 families have been severely affected by the extreme weather conditions, with more than 600 houses damaged according to preliminary assessments. The Sri Lankan government has taken emergency measures, closing government offices and schools while deploying military resources for relief and rescue operations.
The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has mobilized helicopters, navy boats, and thousands of troops to evacuate stranded villagers from various affected regions. The intensified rainfall, attributed to Cyclone Ditwah occurring during Sri Lanka's northeast monsoon season, has caused most reservoirs and rivers to overflow, resulting in widespread road blockages and transportation disruptions.
Authorities have suspended passenger trains and closed multiple roads after rocks, mud, and trees fell on transportation infrastructure, with some areas experiencing complete flooding. The government has also postponed final-year school examinations nationwide for two days and granted civil servants a day off due to the severe weather conditions.
This natural disaster highlights the increasing vulnerability of the region to climate change impacts, with experts warning that Sri Lanka faces more frequent floods despite its traditional dependence on seasonal monsoon rains for irrigation and hydroelectricity needs.
