India sends massive bridge and medical teams to Colombo
In a significant display of neighborhood solidarity, India has ramped up its rescue and relief efforts in Sri Lanka following the devastation unleashed by Cyclone Ditwah. As the death toll in the island nation crosses the grim mark of 400, New Delhi is actively executing Operation Sagar Bandhu to provide critical support to the affected population.
Cyclone Ditwah, which struck the Sri Lankan coast on November 28, has left a trail of destruction, triggering massive landslides and severe flooding across multiple districts. In response to the humanitarian crisis, the Indian government mobilized its assets swiftly to deliver essential supplies and infrastructure support.
Critical Infrastructure Airlifted
According to the Ministry of Defence, a major component of this relief mission involved the transport of heavy infrastructure to restore connectivity in disaster-hit zones. An Indian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft successfully airlifted a massive 65-ton Bailey Bridge from the Hindan airbase in India to Colombo. This engineering feat is expected to play a crucial role in reconnecting areas isolated by washed-out roads and bridges.
Boots on the Ground and in the Air
While the heavy lift aircraft managed logistics, tactical operations continued unabated. Indian Air Force Mi-17 V5 helicopters have been flying sustained sorties, dropping nearly nine tons of relief materials to stranded communities. These choppers were also instrumental in winching three survivors to safety from inaccessible areas.
Simultaneously, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are working shoulder-to-shoulder with Sri Lankan armed forces. Their efforts have led to the evacuation of vulnerable civilians from hazardous debris, including a visually impaired senior citizen and an injured woman.
Medical Support and Diplomatic Gratitude
To address the health crisis emerging from the disaster, India has also deployed a self-contained, modular field hospital along with specialized medical teams.
Mahishini Colonne, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to India, acknowledged the scale of the tragedy and expressed profound gratitude for the assistance. Calling India a consistent "first responder," she highlighted New Delhi's history of support, ranging from the 2004 Tsunami to the recent economic crisis, and now, the Cyclone Ditwah relief efforts.
This rapid mobilization under the 'Neighborhood First' policy underscores India's commitment to standing by its maritime neighbors during their darkest hours.
