How Did Operation Sagar Bandhu Help Rescue Lives in Sri Lanka?
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Synopsis
Operation Sagar Bandhu has become a beacon of hope for those affected by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka. With NDRF's dedicated rescue efforts, lives are being saved, and communities are receiving crucial support in a time of dire need. Discover how this operation is making a significant impact on the ground.
Key Takeaways
- Operation Sagar Bandhu is focused on life-saving efforts in Sri Lanka.
- Over 1.5 million people affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
- INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri are crucial in delivering relief.
- Significant fatalities and missing persons reported.
- 22 districts declared national disaster areas.
Colombo, Dec 3 (NationPress) In the wake of Cyclone Ditwah's devastating impacts, the ongoing Operation Sagar Bandhu has seen the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team conduct successful evacuations of a visually impaired senior citizen and an injured woman from Sedawatta and Nadeegama. This operation follows the widespread chaos caused by the cyclone, which unleashed torrential rains, flash floods, and landslides across the island nation.
The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka stated on X, "Operation Sagar Bandhu is committed to life-saving operations. NDRF successfully evacuated a senior citizen with visual impairments and an injured woman from Sedawatta and Nadeegama, both receiving immediate on-site medical care."
Initiated on November 28, this operation aims to deliver critical search and rescue, as well as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), to Sri Lanka, which has suffered extensive loss of life and disruption due to Cyclone Ditwah.
As part of the mission, the Indian Naval Ships (INS) Vikrant and INS Udaygiri provided urgent aid to the affected population. Ship-borne helicopters were deployed for aerial reconnaissance of the devastated areas, enhancing search and rescue operations.
"Following Cyclone Ditwah, INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri at Colombo delivered prompt assistance, providing essential relief supplies. Helicopters were utilized for aerial surveys of the impacted zones, bolstering ongoing rescue efforts and successfully rescuing Sri Lankan citizens," reported the Indian Navy spokesperson on X.
Additionally, the INS Sukanya arrived in Trincomalee on December 1 with vital relief supplies for Sri Lankan authorities. This initiative underscores the Indian Navy's role as a First Responder in the Indian Ocean Region, aligning with India's MAHASAGAR vision and Neighbourhood First policy, emphasizing India's unwavering commitment to assist neighboring countries during crises.
Sri Lanka has faced severe weather conditions, leading to flash floods and landslides due to Cyclone Ditwah's aftermath. The death toll has tragically climbed to 465, as reported by the Sri Lankan media outlet Daily Mirror, citing the Disaster Management Centre (DMC).
The Kandy district has reported the highest fatalities, with 118 lives lost. Additionally, 366 individuals remain unaccounted for, primarily from the Matale district. Over 1.5 million people have been affected by the cyclone and the subsequent floods. According to the DMC, 232,752 individuals from more than 61,000 families have been relocated to safety centers.
A special gazette has been issued, designating 22 districts severely impacted by Cyclone Ditwah as national disaster zones. This declaration follows the extensive damage inflicted by heavy rains, flooding, and adverse weather across Sri Lanka.
Point of View
It is imperative for nations to rally together in support during such crises. The proactive measures taken by India, particularly through Operation Sagar Bandhu, reflect a commitment to humanitarian aid and regional cooperation. This situation emphasizes the need for collaborative responses to natural disasters, ensuring that affected communities receive prompt and effective assistance.
NationPress
03/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Operation Sagar Bandhu?
Operation Sagar Bandhu is a humanitarian mission launched by India to provide urgent search and rescue and disaster relief support to Sri Lanka following the catastrophic impacts of Cyclone Ditwah.
How many people have been affected by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka?
Over 1.5 million people have been impacted by Cyclone Ditwah, with extensive flooding and severe weather conditions resulting in significant loss of life and displacement.
What are the key efforts made by the Indian Navy during this operation?
The Indian Navy has deployed ships, such as INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri, to deliver immediate relief and conduct aerial reconnaissance, enhancing the ongoing search and rescue efforts.
What has been the death toll in Sri Lanka due to Cyclone Ditwah?
The death toll has tragically reached 465, with many individuals still reported missing and communities severely affected.
Which areas in Sri Lanka have been most impacted?
The Kandy district has reported the highest fatalities, while 22 districts have been declared national disaster areas due to the extensive damage caused by the cyclone.
