Colombo, Dec 7 (NationPress) In the wake of India's ongoing humanitarian mission, Operation Sagar Bandhu, a field hospital established in Mahiyanganaya, located near Kandy, has delivered crucial medical support to more than 2200 patients affected by Cyclone Ditwah.

The Indian medical personnel have successfully executed 67 minor procedures and three major surgeries since the hospital's inception on December 5, as per the announcement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

“Operation Sagar Bandhu is about extending medical aid and support. The field hospital in Mahiyanganaya has already provided essential medical care to over 2200 patients impacted by Cyclone Ditwah. Our medical teams have effectively completed 67 minor procedures and 3 surgeries. We are dedicated to delivering timely healthcare to the people of Sri Lanka,” posted MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on X.

Initiated on November 28, Operation Sagar Bandhu aims to offer immediate search, rescue, and humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which has resulted in catastrophic flooding, landslides, tragic loss of life, and widespread disruption across the nation.

Reportedly, 627 individuals have lost their lives, and 190 people remain unaccounted for due to the severe weather that has impacted Sri Lanka in recent days, as noted by the local media outlet Daily Mirror, referencing the Disaster Management Centre (DMC). Additionally, 2,179,138 people across 611,530 families have been affected by the adverse weather.

On Saturday, Lt General Lasantha Rodrigo, the commander of the Sri Lanka Army, visited the Indian Army's field hospital in Mahiyanganaya and expressed gratitude to the Indian government for their prompt response following Cyclone Ditwah.

“Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo appreciated the Indian Government for their rapid response post-Cyclone Ditwah and for ensuring that vital medical assistance reaches those in need. The field hospital was transported to Sri Lanka via an Indian Air Force (IAF) C17 aircraft alongside a dedicated medical team of 78 members,” stated the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka on X.

In parallel, Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, held discussions with corporate leaders involved in the 'Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund' to update them on India's response and ongoing commitment to support the island nation in its recovery from this crisis.

“High Commissioner Santosh Jha engaged with Sri Lankan corporate leaders connected to the 'Rebuilding Sri Lanka Fund' to address future rehabilitation and recovery strategies. He briefed them on India's supportive measures and its steadfast commitment to assist Sri Lanka in overcoming this crisis,” reported the Indian Commission on X.