India Boosts Rescue Operations in Sri Lanka Under ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’ After Cyclone Ditwah Destruction
India has expanded its humanitarian support to Sri Lanka under Operation Sagar Bandhu, as the island nation continues to battle the massive destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah. Massive floods, landslides, and infrastructure failures have left hundreds dead and lakhs displaced across several provinces.
On Monday, India deployed additional aircraft, helicopters, naval ships, and rapid-response units to strengthen ongoing rescue and relief efforts. The support includes evacuation missions, medical aid, food supplies, and delivery of high-priority emergency equipment to the most affected zones.
INS Sukanya, Indian Air Force aircraft, and MI-17 helicopters have been pressed into continuous missions across Sri Lanka’s worst-hit regions.
Cyclone Ditwah brought unprecedented rainfall and flash floods across Sri Lanka, triggering massive landslides and wiping out entire settlements. With road networks blocked and several districts cut off, Sri Lanka sought immediate international assistance.
India responded within hours and has now scaled the response into one of its largest humanitarian operations in the region in recent years.
The Indian High Commission said the support reflects “India’s commitment to stand with its neighbour during times of crisis.”
Key Moments From the Rescue Efforts
1. INS Sukanya Reaches Trincomalee With Major Relief Cargo
Indian Naval Ship INS Sukanya arrived at Trincomalee with 12 tonnes of essential relief material, including medical kits, food supplies, tents, blankets, water purification systems, and rapid-response tools.
These supplies were formally handed to Sri Lankan officials for immediate distribution to affected families.
2. MI-17 Helicopters Continue High-Risk Evacuation Runs
Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters have been operating in dangerous, low-visibility conditions:
- 57 stranded people, including 10 children, were evacuated from Irunguwatta to Matale.
- 2.5 tonnes of ration supplies were delivered to the flooded Keagalle region.
- Another IAF MI-17 airlifted 34 citizens from Kotmale to Colombo and distributed medical kits across hill districts.
3. IAF C-130J Brings Advanced Trauma Care Units
Late Sunday, an IAF C-130J Super Hercules landed in Sri Lanka carrying 4 tonnes of BHISHM Modular Trauma Cubes — compact medical care systems designed for rapid disaster deployment.
These units include:
- mobile surgical kits
- diagnostic tools
- wound-management systems
- thermal shelters
They are expected to be deployed in zones where hospitals remain inaccessible or destroyed.
4. Joint India-Sri Lanka Rescue Grid Activated
Rescue teams from both nations are now working in a coordinated grid involving:
- Sri Lanka Air Force
- Sri Lanka Navy
- Sri Lanka Army
- Police
- Local first responders
- Indian Navy & Indian Air Force
Evacuation squads, drone teams, and medical response units are operating round the clock.
Reactions From Officials
Indian High Commission (Colombo):
“India stands with the people of Sri Lanka. More critical relief is being sent throughout the day as part of Operation Sagar Bandhu.”
Sri Lankan Disaster Management Centre (DMC):
“The support from India has strengthened our rescue capabilities at a crucial time.”
Local communities have shared immense gratitude for India’s rapid assistance, calling it a “lifeline” during the island’s worst natural disaster in years.
International observers have noted that India's response is one of the fastest humanitarian deployments in South Asia this year.
Impact of Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka
Death Toll & Missing Persons
- 355 deaths reported
- 366 persons missing
- Numbers expected to rise as recovery teams reach remote regions.
Affected Population
- 1,118,323 people impacted
- 309,607 families displaced
Infrastructure Crisis
- Bridges destroyed
- Landslides blocking major roads
- Communications networks down
- Several towns fully inaccessible
Sri Lanka’s telecom operators have now agreed to prioritize emergency calls, easing network congestion.
Why India’s Operation Matters
Strategic Proximity & Humanitarian Diplomacy
India has maintained a consistent policy of “Neighbourhood First.” Disaster support to Sri Lanka strengthens:
- regional stability
- humanitarian collaboration
- diplomatic goodwill
- long-term defence coordination
Previous Indian Assistance
Operation Sagar Bandhu follows earlier missions:
- Covid-19 medical supplies
- Financial support during the economic crisis
- Fuel shipments
- Fertilizer aid
- Disaster assistance after earlier cyclones
Conclusion
India’s expanded support under Operation Sagar Bandhu shows the strength of India-Sri Lanka cooperation and New Delhi’s capability to lead emergency missions in the region. With more aircraft, ships, and relief teams arriving, both countries hope to stabilize the situation and prevent further loss of life.
As ground realities evolve, India is expected to intensify assistance in the coming days, ensuring immediate relief and long-term recovery for Sri Lanka’s cyclone-hit populations.
Final Thoughts from TheTrendingPeople
India’s rapid activation of Operation Sagar Bandhu highlights the country’s increasingly strong humanitarian leadership in South Asia. With Sri Lanka facing the worst floods and landslides in recent years, India’s deployment of aircraft, helicopters, medical units, and naval support has made a critical difference in reaching stranded communities. As rescue efforts continue, the focus now shifts to long-term recovery, restoring connectivity, and ensuring displaced families receive sustainable assistance. The coordination between Indian and Sri Lankan forces sets a strong example of regional partnership during disaster emergencies.