In a remarkable display of international cooperation and swift humanitarian response, the Indian Air Force has launched a critical rescue mission to assist cyclone-ravaged Sri Lanka. The operation, codenamed Operation Sagar Bandhu, involves the urgent airlifting of specialized disaster response teams to help rescue Sri Lankan citizens affected by the devastating Cyclone Ditwah.
The Swift Response to a Natural Disaster
On June 24, 2024, the Indian Air Force sprang into action following a formal request from the Sri Lankan government. The mission involved airlifting two dedicated teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) along with their essential equipment from Pune. The teams were transported using a military C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, renowned for its capability to operate in challenging conditions.
The NDRF teams, consisting of nearly 100 highly trained personnel, were mobilized from their base in Pune. They carried with them over 12 tonnes of specialized equipment crucial for search and rescue operations in flood-hit areas. This equipment included 15 rubber boats, 100 life jackets, and advanced communication gear to coordinate efforts in disaster-stricken zones.
Operation Sagar Bandhu: A Mission of Friendship
The name Operation Sagar Bandhu, translating to "Operation Sea Friend," perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the mission. It highlights the deep-rooted ties and neighborly cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. This is not the first time India has extended such assistance, reinforcing its role as the 'first responder' in the Indian Ocean Region during crises.
The C-130J aircraft took off from Pune and successfully landed at the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport in Hambantota, Sri Lanka. Upon arrival, the NDRF teams immediately coordinated with Sri Lankan authorities to deploy into the most affected regions. Their primary focus was on rescuing citizens trapped in flooded homes and providing immediate medical aid to the injured.
Cyclone Ditwah's Path of Destruction
Cyclone Ditwah has left a trail of devastation across several parts of Sri Lanka. The storm triggered severe flooding and landslides, submerging entire villages, destroying critical infrastructure, and displacing thousands of residents. Reports indicated that several areas were completely cut off, with roads washed away and communication lines snapped.
The Sri Lankan government had declared a state of emergency in the worst-hit districts, appealing for international assistance to manage the scale of the disaster. The timely intervention by the Indian Air Force and the NDRF has been crucial in bolstering the local rescue efforts, which were struggling with the magnitude of the destruction.
The successful execution of Operation Sagar Bandhu underscores India's commitment to its 'Neighbourhood First' policy. It demonstrates a robust disaster management mechanism and the ability to project humanitarian assistance rapidly. This mission not only saves lives but also significantly strengthens the diplomatic and people-to-people bonds between the two neighboring nations, setting a powerful example of regional solidarity in the face of natural calamities.
