Cyclone Ditwah: 80 Dead, Many Missing in Sri Lanka
At least 80 people have been killed and many remain missing in Sri Lanka as Cyclone Ditwah causes massive destruction. India has launched a swift humanitarian mission, Operation Sagar Bandhu, to assist its maritime neighbour.
Key Takeaways
- Casualties: 80 confirmed dead, many still missing.
- Affected: Nearly 44,000 people impacted by the cyclone.
- Indian Aid: Emergency relief including 6.5 tonnes of rations delivered by Indian naval ships.
- Threat: Rising river levels threaten Colombo and Gampaha district.
Widespread Damage and Displacement
Torrential rains, landslides, and floods have displaced thousands across the island nation. Many regions remain submerged and inaccessible. Officials warn that rising water levels in the Kelani and Attanagalu rivers pose a grave threat to Colombo and the populous Gampaha district.
Power outages have affected nearly a third of the region, forcing the shutdown of two major hydropower plants.
India’s Swift Humanitarian Response
India has dispatched emergency relief under Operation Sagar Bandhu. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed condolences and stressed India’s commitment to stand by Sri Lanka.
The relief includes 4.5 tonnes of dry rations and 2 tonnes of fresh rations, including staple foods, ready-to-eat meals, and dairy products. Additional survival supplies were also provided.
Indian naval ships INS Vikrant and INS Udayagiri delivered the relief consignments to Sri Lanka.
Cyclone Path Update
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Cyclone Ditwah is likely to reach the southwest Bay of Bengal near north Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and south Andhra Pradesh by November 30.
