In a significant demonstration of its 'Neighbourhood First' policy, India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, on Tuesday inaugurated a strategically important bridge in Sri Lanka's Northern Province. The event, held in the presence of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, marks a key milestone in India's humanitarian response to a devastating natural disaster.
Bridge Restores Vital Connectivity in Cyclone-Hit Region
The newly inaugurated structure is a 120-foot dual carriageway Bailey Bridge, located in the Kilinochchi district. This region was one of the areas most severely affected by Cyclone Ditwah, which caused widespread destruction and claimed hundreds of lives across the island nation. The bridge, weighing 110 tonnes, was airlifted from India and installed under Operation Sagar Bandhu, India's dedicated humanitarian mission for Sri Lanka.
Dr. Jaishankar, who announced the inauguration on social media platform X, stated that the installation has been crucial in restoring critical connectivity to the isolated region. He jointly inaugurated the bridge with Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister, H M Vijitha Herath. The minister's visit to Colombo is in his capacity as the special envoy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Operation Sagar Bandhu: A Comprehensive Relief Effort
Operation Sagar Bandhu was launched by India last month as a comprehensive initiative to assist Sri Lanka in the aftermath of the cyclone, described as one of the country's worst disasters in recent years. The operation has already delivered substantial aid.
During his address, Jaishankar detailed the scale of the initial relief, which included approximately 1,100 tonnes of essential relief material. Furthermore, India supplied about 14.5 tonnes of vital medicines and medical equipment to help the Sri Lankan healthcare system cope with the crisis.
India Commits $450 Million for Long-Term Reconstruction
Moving beyond immediate relief, India has pledged significant long-term support for Sri Lanka's recovery. Dr. Jaishankar handed over a letter from Prime Minister Modi that commits India to a substantial reconstruction package worth USD 450 million.
This package is designed to build on India's role as the first responder during the emergency. It comprises two key components:
- USD 350 million as a concessional line of credit.
- USD 100 million in outright grants.
The minister explained that the final details of this financial package are being finalised in close consultation with the Sri Lankan government to ensure it effectively addresses the nation's key recovery and infrastructure rebuilding needs.
Dr. Jaishankar arrived in Colombo on Monday evening, where he was received by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ruwan Ranasinghe. The visit and the aid commitments underscore the deep-rooted ties and India's steadfast commitment to supporting Sri Lanka during times of need.
