Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka: India Launches ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’; C-130J Aircraft Carrying 12 Tons of Relief Material Leaves for Colombo

Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka:
India has launched Operation Sagar Bandhu to support cyclone-hit Sri Lanka after Cyclone Ditwah caused widespread destruction, leaving nearly 80 people dead and thousands affected. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed that the Indian Air Force’s C-130J aircraft departed today carrying 12 tons of humanitarian supplies, including tents, tarpaulins, blankets, hygiene kits, and ready-to-eat food items.

Earlier, Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and warship INS Udaygiri reached Colombo with the first consignment of relief materials. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences and assured Sri Lanka of India’s full support, calling it “our closest maritime neighbour”.

Cyclone Ditwah has caused severe floods, building collapses, and damaged infrastructure across Sri Lanka. The nation’s Disaster Management Centre reports 61 confirmed deaths, 25 missing, and over 44,000 people affected since the storm intensified on November 16.