India Steps Up to Aid Sri Lanka After Cyclone Ditwah's Devastation

Emergency Response to Cyclone Ditwah

Colombo: In the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, which has tragically claimed over 400 lives and caused extensive damage, India has emerged as a key player in the emergency response efforts, as reported by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's office on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to President Dissanayake, emphasizing India's unwavering support for Sri Lanka during this challenging time.

During their conversation, Modi assured Dissanayake of India's ongoing assistance in the recovery efforts across the regions affected by the cyclone.

He conveyed his sorrow over the loss of lives and destruction in Sri Lanka, reiterating that the people of India stand in solidarity with their Sri Lankan counterparts during this crisis.

Sri Lanka is currently facing severe flooding, landslides, and infrastructure failures due to Cyclone Ditwah, which has left numerous districts cut off and significantly challenged the nation's disaster response capabilities.

The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) has reported at least 410 fatalities and 336 individuals missing as of Tuesday morning, following catastrophic floods and landslides triggered by extreme weather since November 16.

In response, India initiated Operation Sagar Bandhu, deploying two urban search and rescue teams consisting of 80 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to assist the island nation, embodying the 'Neighbourhood First' policy.

Additionally, it was announced that Sri Lanka will waive customs duties and levies on flood relief supplies, provided they are consigned to the Director General of Disaster Management or the Secretary of the Defence Ministry.

The Road Development Authority of Sri Lanka reported that 256 roads, including 15 major bridges, have suffered damage due to the disaster.

Overall, approximately 1,466,615 individuals from 407,594 families have been impacted by this calamity.