New Delhi/Colombo, Dec 9 (NationPress) As part of its humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka under Operation Sagar Bandhu following Cyclone Ditwah, India has been providing life-saving aid, crucial relief supplies, and essential early-recovery capabilities across the island nation, including in regions severely affected and rendered inaccessible, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on Tuesday.

According to the MEA, driven by India’s Neighbourhood First policy and Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), the nation has been unwavering in its support for the people of Sri Lanka during this challenging period, working closely with Sri Lankan authorities.

“This has been achieved by swiftly dispatching emergency relief materials by air and sea; quickly deploying specialized search and rescue units, medical and engineering teams, including BHISHM Cubes and Bailey bridge systems; and establishing an Indian Army Field Hospital,” the MEA reported.

On Tuesday, another Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopter arrived in Sri Lanka to assist the Sri Lankan Air Force in relief and rescue operations in hard-to-reach areas affected by the cyclone.

“Following the departure of two Indian Air Force MI-17 helicopters, which conducted extensive rescue and relief missions in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Air Force, the new helicopter will persist in these efforts with determination and compassion,” posted the Indian High Commission in Colombo on X.

India initiated Operation Sagar Bandhu on November 28, as the first responder in the immediate aftermath of the devastating Cyclone Ditwah, to provide urgent Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) to Sri Lanka.

The MEA highlighted that India was the first nation to deploy trained disaster responders in Sri Lanka, ensuring that specialized teams arrived within the first 24 hours of Cyclone Ditwah, when search and rescue operations were most urgent. To date, over 450 individuals have been rescued and assisted.

The Indian Army Field Hospital, located in Mahiyanganaya in the Badulla district of Sri Lanka, has treated 3,388 people as of December 8, including performing surgeries. The field hospital remains operational.

Between December 3 and 9, four modular Bailey Bridge systems, along with specialized teams of Indian Army Engineers, were airlifted by four IAF C-17 Globemaster aircraft for deployment in Sri Lanka. These quickly installable bridge structures will restore vital connectivity links and enhance access to deliver relief to landslide and flood-affected areas.

“Operation Sagar Bandhu serves as a testament to the profound emotional ties between the peoples – and the trustworthy partnership between the Governments – of India and Sri Lanka. India is fully committed to continue working alongside Sri Lankan authorities in the ongoing Operation Sagar Bandhu, to facilitate early recovery, rehabilitation, and reconstruction,” the MEA reiterated.