Did NDRF Rescue a Pregnant Woman Amid Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka?
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Synopsis
In a remarkable rescue operation, NDRF teams successfully evacuated a pregnant woman amid the chaos caused by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka. As the cyclone wreaks havoc, urgent humanitarian assistance is underway, highlighting the critical need for prompt response during natural disasters. Discover the extent of the destruction and the ongoing relief efforts.
Key Takeaways
- NDRF's rapid response saved a pregnant woman in Puttalam, Sri Lanka.
- Operation Sagar Bandhu is crucial for humanitarian aid.
- Cyclone Ditwah has caused extensive damage, affecting over 437,000 people.
- Significant destruction has occurred in Colombo, Gampaha, and other districts.
- Relief operations are ongoing, providing essential support to victims.
Colombo, Dec 2 (NationPress) A team from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) successfully rescued a nine-month pregnant woman in the Puttalam district of Sri Lanka, relocating her to a safer environment as rescue and relief operations escalate throughout the island nation in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah's devastation.
Following her evacuation, the woman received an immediate medical evaluation.
Indian rescue teams have ramped up their efforts under Operation Sagar Bandhu, initiated on November 28 to provide essential search-and-rescue services along with Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) to what India labels its "closest maritime neighbor" following the cyclone's destruction.
The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka remarked, "Operation Sagar Bandhu continues to support those in dire need."
Cyclone Ditwah has caused extensive damage, being regarded as one of the most catastrophic events in Sri Lanka's recent history, with over 350 lives lost and nearly 400 individuals still unaccounted for, according to local media.
The Colombo and Gampaha districts are among the hardest hit, affecting more than 437,000 people and currently housing 212 operational shelters. In Gampaha alone, 218,899 residents have suffered due to the cyclone, with nine confirmed fatalities and two individuals missing.
In Badulla, an NDRF team managed to recover a deceased individual in a demanding operation where the body was found beneath over five feet of debris. Efforts to search the area are ongoing.
Severe landslides have struck Badulla and Nuwara Eliya districts, with Badulla recording 71 deaths and Nuwara Eliya 75. Kandy has reported the highest death toll at 88, with 150 people still missing, according to News First.
In the northern and eastern regions of the island, Trincomalee is providing shelter for 15,086 displaced individuals, while Mannar has reported nearly 80,000 affected residents. Ampara has confirmed eight fatalities, and Monaragala has recorded three deaths.
Across Sri Lanka, 1,564 safety centers have been established, accommodating 218,526 individuals from 61,612 families. The destruction encompasses submerged towns, collapsed roads, and severely disrupted communication networks, as reported by local media.
Relief operations are ongoing, bolstered by military personnel and aerial missions delivering food, clean water, and medical supplies to the impacted areas.
Point of View
I believe it is crucial to highlight the incredible efforts of rescue teams like the NDRF in times of natural disasters. Their dedication to saving lives exemplifies a commitment to human welfare that transcends borders. In such moments of crisis, the solidarity shown by neighboring countries underscores the importance of cooperation and humanitarian aid in addressing the needs of affected populations. We must remain vigilant and supportive as the situation develops.
NationPress
02/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Operation Sagar Bandhu?
Operation Sagar Bandhu is an initiative launched by India to provide search-and-rescue assistance and humanitarian support to Sri Lanka following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
How many people have been affected by Cyclone Ditwah?
Over 437,000 people have been impacted by Cyclone Ditwah, with significant destruction reported across various districts in Sri Lanka.
What areas in Sri Lanka are most affected by the cyclone?
Colombo, Gampaha, Badulla, and Nuwara Eliya districts are among the most severely affected regions due to Cyclone Ditwah.
What support is being provided to the victims?
Relief efforts include the establishment of safety centers, distribution of food, clean water, and medical supplies, supported by military personnel and aerial operations.
How many safety centers have been set up in Sri Lanka?
A total of 1,564 safety centers have been established across Sri Lanka, accommodating over 218,526 individuals from affected families.
