What is Operation Sagar Bandhu? INS Sukanya brings relief to Sri Lanka's Trincomalee
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Synopsis
In a significant humanitarian effort, INS Sukanya has arrived in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, loaded with essential relief supplies. This operation aims to assist communities devastated by Cyclone Ditwah, which caused catastrophic flooding and landslides. Discover how India is stepping up to support its neighbor in this time of crisis.
Key Takeaways
- INS Sukanya has delivered relief materials to Sri Lanka.
- Operation Sagar Bandhu aims to assist victims of Cyclone Ditwah.
- Collaboration between Indian and Sri Lankan authorities is ongoing.
- Over 1 million people have been impacted by severe weather conditions.
- Communication issues are hindering rescue efforts.
Colombo, Dec 1 (NationPress) As part of Operation Sagar Bandhu, the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sukanya, laden with much-needed relief supplies, has docked in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka on Monday.
External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar took to X to announce, "INS Sukanya has successfully arrived in Trincomalee with vital relief materials."
This operation was initiated by India to assist Sri Lanka, which is grappling with severe consequences following Cyclone Ditwah that caused extensive flooding and landslides across the nation.
Indian rescue teams are collaborating with the Sri Lanka Air Force, Navy, Army, Police, and local first responders to provide aid to the communities affected by the floods. Ongoing efforts include evacuations, delivery of supplies, and emergency support throughout the island.
Earlier today, the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka reported that a C-130J aircraft from India had delivered over 4 tonnes of BHISHM Modular Trauma Cubes to the country on Sunday.
The Indian High Commission shared on X that these BHISHM Modular Trauma Cubes are compact, durable medical units equipped with essential diagnostic tools and surgical kits, intended for quick deployment in areas struck by disasters.
Furthermore, Mi-17 helicopters from the Indian Air Force successfully evacuated 34 individuals, including children, from Kotmale to Colombo while also distributing medical assistance and food supplies.
The toll from the ongoing adverse weather has tragically reached 355, with 366 individuals still unaccounted for, as reported by local media citing the Disaster Management Centre (DMC).
According to the DMC, over 1,118,323 people from 309,607 families have been affected as relentless rains, floods, and landslides continue to devastate multiple regions of Sri Lanka.
Communication difficulties have hampered rescue and coordination efforts in the most severely impacted areas.
The President's Media Division has stated that telecommunications providers in Sri Lanka have pledged to prioritize emergency calls to alleviate network congestion and enhance the response system.
Point of View
It's essential to highlight that India's timely intervention in Sri Lanka amid the crisis showcases a commitment to regional stability and humanitarian aid. This collaborative effort during a disaster emphasizes the importance of international support and solidarity.
NationPress
01/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Operation Sagar Bandhu?
Operation Sagar Bandhu is a humanitarian initiative launched by India to provide relief and support to Sri Lanka following the devastating effects of Cyclone Ditwah.
What materials are being sent to Sri Lanka?
The Indian Naval Ship INS Sukanya is carrying essential relief materials, including medical supplies and trauma units.
How many people have been affected by the floods in Sri Lanka?
According to the Disaster Management Centre, over 1,118,323 individuals from 309,607 families have been affected by the floods and landslides.
Who is involved in the rescue operations?
Indian rescue teams are collaborating with the Sri Lanka Air Force, Navy, Army, Police, and local first responders to assist flood-affected communities.
What challenges are faced during the rescue efforts?
Communication difficulties have complicated rescue and coordination efforts in some of the worst-hit areas of Sri Lanka.
