Colombo, Sri Lanka – India has launched "Operation Sagar Bandhu" to provide critical humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka, which is grappling with the devastating aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. As part of this operation, an Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130J aircraft landed in Colombo on Saturday, carrying approximately 12 tonnes of essential relief supplies.
The aircraft arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport around 1:30 am and was received by officials from the Indian High Commission and officers from the Sri Lanka Air Force. The relief materials include tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, and ready-to-eat food items, intended to provide immediate support to the affected families.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar shared the update on social media platform X, stating, "Operation Sagar Bandhu unfolds. Indian Air Force C-130 J plane carrying approx 12 tons of humanitarian aid including tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, and ready-to-eat food items lands in Colombo".
Prior to this, on Friday, India had already dispatched urgent Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) supplies to Sri Lanka. The initial consignment was transported by the Indian Navy's aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and frontline ship INS Udaigiri. These efforts are a testament to India's "Neighbourhood First" policy and its commitment to assisting its neighbors in times of crisis. The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka posted on X, "Operation Sagar Bandhu is underway, delivering urgent HADR support to Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah. India extends urgent HADR support to Sri Lanka in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. India has provided 4.5 tonnes of dry rations, 2 tonnes of fresh rations, and other essential relief items from INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri to assist affected families. In this challenging moment, India stands firmly with the people of Sri Lanka, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the Neighbourhood First policy".
Cyclone Ditwah has caused widespread destruction across Sri Lanka, resulting in over 80 fatalities and leaving thousands homeless. Torrential rainfall triggered extensive flooding and landslides, particularly in the central hill regions. According to the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), the disaster has affected as many as 148,603 individuals from 44,192 families, with 5,024 families (approximately 14,000 people) seeking shelter in 195 emergency centers. Reports indicate that nearly 35% of the island is without power, impacting around 7 million customers of the state power entity Ceylon Electricity Board.
In addition to the C-130J flight, the IAF has also deployed one C-130 and one IL-76 aircraft from Hindan Air Base, airlifting 21 tonnes of relief material along with over 80 NDRF personnel and 8 Tonnes of equipment to Colombo.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has offered condolences to the people of Sri Lanka and assured continued assistance. India's rapid response and comprehensive aid package under "Operation Sagar Bandhu" highlight the strong relationship and close cooperation between the two nations.
