India has launched Operation Sagar Bandhu to assist Sri Lanka after the island nation was hit by widespread flooding caused by Cyclone Ditwah. With heavy rainfall disrupting normal life and thousands affected across multiple districts, the Indian government stepped in quickly to provide emergency relief. As part of the immediate response, India has sent 12 tonnes of essential humanitarian assistance, reaffirming its commitment to supporting neighbouring countries in times of crisis.

What Prompted the Launch of Operation Sagar Bandhu

Cyclone Ditwah intensified rapidly in the Indian Ocean, triggering severe weather conditions across Sri Lanka. Several regions experienced relentless rainfall, overflowing rivers, and landslides that left homes damaged and families displaced. Road connectivity was severely impacted, and emergency services struggled to reach critical areas.
In view of the escalating situation, India activated its humanitarian support mechanism under Operation Sagar Bandhu, a mission dedicated to assisting nations in the Indian Ocean region during natural disasters.

India’s Rapid Relief Response

India dispatched a specially equipped military transport aircraft loaded with 12 tonnes of relief materials. The consignment includes food supplies, tents, water purification equipment, medicines, and essential items required for immediate rehabilitation.
Authorities emphasized that the relief effort aligns with India’s longstanding policy of providing assistance during humanitarian emergencies, particularly to neighbouring countries.

What Aid Has Been Sent Under the Operation

India’s first relief tranche contains materials selected based on Sri Lanka’s urgent needs:

Essential medicines

Hospitals in affected districts reported shortages due to damaged storage facilities and supply routes. India’s medical support includes emergency treatment kits, antibiotics, and basic healthcare supplies.

Food supplies

With the flooding disrupting transport and access to markets, thousands of families required food security support. The shipment includes high-calorie rations designed for emergency consumption.

Water and sanitation items

The floods raised the risk of waterborne diseases. India’s consignment includes portable water purification units and hygiene kits aimed at maintaining basic sanitation in temporary shelters.

Temporary shelter materials

Tents, tarpaulins, and ground mats were included to support displaced families whose homes suffered severe damage during the cyclone.

India–Sri Lanka Disaster Cooperation

India and Sri Lanka share a history of mutual support during crises. During past cyclones, tsunamis, and economic emergencies, India has consistently acted as one of the first responders. Operation Sagar Bandhu is another chapter in this close partnership, demonstrating India’s readiness to help when needed.
Similarly, Sri Lanka has extended cooperation during crises affecting India, strengthening the bond between the two countries.

Impact of Cyclone Ditwah on Sri Lanka

The effects of Cyclone Ditwah have rippled across Sri Lanka, disrupting daily life and overwhelming emergency services.

Major flood-hit regions

Districts such as Colombo, Gampaha, Kegalle, and Kalutara reported the worst flooding. Several areas were submerged, and residents were evacuated to safer zones by the military and rescue teams.

Infrastructure damage

Roads and bridges were damaged, delaying relief movement. Electricity outages affected thousands of homes, and essential services were temporarily suspended in multiple regions.

Rising concern over landslides

Authorities raised alerts in hilly districts where continuous rainfall softened soil conditions, increasing the risk of landslides. Evacuation orders were issued for vulnerable communities.

India’s Larger Humanitarian Vision in the Indian Ocean Region

Operation Sagar Bandhu is part of India’s broader strategy to ensure stability and humanitarian support in the Indian Ocean. India has previously launched similar missions in Maldives, Madagascar, Mozambique, and other nations facing natural disasters.
The approach is driven by the idea of neighbourhood-first cooperation, strengthening regional ties through timely assistance.

India’s Use of Air and Naval Assets for the Mission

For Operation Sagar Bandhu, the Indian Air Force mobilized a heavy-lift aircraft capable of transporting large quantities of relief items quickly.
In previous relief missions, the Indian Navy has also deployed ships equipped with medical teams, diving units, and disaster response personnel. Officials stated that additional aid shipments may follow based on Sri Lanka’s requirements.

Sri Lanka’s Response to India’s Assistance

Sri Lankan authorities expressed gratitude for India’s prompt support, highlighting the significance of such assistance during the current crisis. Humanitarian organizations within the country also acknowledged that the relief materials would help meet immediate needs while recovery efforts begin.

Challenges Ahead for Sri Lanka

While the arrival of international aid provides immediate relief, Sri Lanka faces long-term challenges in managing the aftermath:

Restoring infrastructure

Floodwaters have weakened roads and bridges, requiring extensive repair work. Electricity networks and communication channels also need restoration.

Public health concerns

Standing water increases the risk of disease outbreaks, requiring medical monitoring and preventive measures.

Supporting displaced families

Thousands have lost homes or suffered structural damage. Rebuilding efforts will require time, financial support, and coordinated planning.

India’s Continued Commitment

Officials have indicated that India will continue to support Sri Lanka as the situation evolves. Additional supplies, medical teams, or specialized equipment may be deployed if requested.
The focus remains on ensuring stability, safety, and quick rehabilitation for affected communities.

Conclusion

Operation Sagar Bandhu stands as a reminder of India’s proactive role in disaster relief within the region. By sending 12 tonnes of aid to Sri Lanka in the immediate aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, India has reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian assistance and regional solidarity. As Sri Lanka battles widespread flooding and its consequences, India’s support offers timely relief and strengthens the enduring partnership between the two nations.