India is ramping up its assistance to Sri Lanka as the island nation grapples with the devastating aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, which has caused widespread flooding, landslides, and infrastructure collapse. As of Wednesday, December 3rd, the death toll has tragically surpassed 479, with hundreds still missing.
In response to this crisis, India has launched "Operation Sagar Bandhu" to provide urgent Search and Rescue (SAR) and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) support to its maritime neighbor. This operation signifies India's commitment to its "Neighborhood First" policy and its role as a first responder in the region.
So far, India has delivered 53 tons of HADR materials to Sri Lanka. Two Indian Navy ships delivered 9.5 tons of emergency rations to Colombo. Additionally, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed aircraft to airlift 31.5 tons of relief materials, including tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, ready-to-eat food items, medicines, and surgical equipment. An additional 12 tons of relief supplies were dispatched on board the Indian Navy Ship Sukanya.
On Wednesday, an IAF C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft airlifted a 65-tonne Bailey Bridge from Hindan to Colombo. Bailey Bridges are portable, prefabricated modular structures that are commonly used in flood-hit areas to reconnect separated regions. The IAF also airlifted 500 water purification units to help restore essential services in the island nation.
In addition to material aid, India has deployed specialized teams to assist with rescue and relief efforts. Over 150 people have been rescued and assisted, including nationals from Sri Lanka, India, Germany, Slovenia, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Poland, Belarus, Iran, Australia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Teams from India's National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are actively involved in search-and-rescue operations in severely affected and isolated regions. Furthermore, two rapidly deployable field hospitals, along with approximately 70 medical personnel, have been sent to provide medical support in the affected areas.
Evacuation efforts are also underway for Indian nationals stranded in Sri Lanka. Over 2,000 Indians have been brought back home through special Indian Air Force flights and commercial services.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to convey his condolences and assure India's continued support. President Dissanayake expressed his gratitude for India's swift assistance and acknowledged the timely response and the appreciation of the Sri Lankan people.
The Indian High Commission in Colombo stated that India is committed to providing all possible help to Sri Lanka as it begins rehabilitation efforts, restores essential services, and works to rebuild livelihoods in the affected regions.
