India’s rapid humanitarian response to the cyclone-ravaged regions of Sri Lanka has become a defining moment in regional disaster cooperation. In the early hours of the morning, an Indian Air Force C-130 aircraft landed in Colombo carrying tonnes of relief supplies, reaffirming India’s commitment to supporting its neighbour during a time of unprecedented devastation. The timely arrival of essential goods demonstrated not only preparedness but also the deep-rooted connection shared between the two nations.
The island nation has been grappling with massive floods, landslides, widespread destruction, and severe disruptions to power and communication systems. As authorities continue to struggle with rescue operations, India’s deployment of trained National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel has provided a much-needed boost to local efforts. With relief and rescue missions intensifying, Operation Sagar Bandhu has emerged as a symbol of solidarity and swift action.
This large-scale mission marks yet another chapter in India’s long-standing policy of placing its neighbourhood at the forefront of its humanitarian priorities. As flooding and landslides continue to threaten communities, the supplies and manpower delivered through this operation are expected to play a critical role in stabilising the situation, supporting stranded families, and restoring essential services.
India’s Relief Aircraft Reaches Colombo
A C-130 aircraft loaded with essential food items, sanitary supplies, and emergency provisions touched down at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport at around 1:30 a.m. The consignment was received by officials from the Indian High Commission and personnel of the Sri Lanka Air Force. This marked the first major airlift under Operation Sagar Bandhu, which aims to support tens of thousands of families affected by Cyclone Ditwah’s devastation.
The Indian Air Force confirmed that the consignment included crucial rations and relief materials destined for the worst-hit regions. The urgency of this mission was underscored by the scale of destruction across Sri Lanka, where entire villages have been submerged, and landslides have wiped out homes and infrastructure.
By delivering relief material through a night-time operation, India ensured immediate assistance reached critical zones. This rapid response continues a longstanding pattern of mutual cooperation between the two countries, especially during severe natural disasters.
Operation Sagar Bandhu: A Swift Humanitarian Mission
The Indian Air Force deployed both a C-130 and an IL-76 aircraft from Hindon Air Base as part of Operation Sagar Bandhu. Together, they airlifted 21 tonnes of relief supplies, more than 80 NDRF personnel, and eight tonnes of specialised rescue equipment. These teams were prepared to undertake challenging rescue operations in flooded and landslide-prone terrains.
According to the operation brief, the supplies included dry rations, medical kits, hygiene materials, and tools required for clearing debris. The NDRF teams were equipped to perform search-and-rescue operations, set up emergency shelters, and assist in evacuations where required.
The mission reflects India’s long-standing “Neighbourhood First” approach. Through this operation, India communicated its unwavering support for Sri Lanka during a time of unparalleled crisis and highlighted its readiness to mobilise large-scale relief measures at short notice.
Devastation Across Sri Lanka
Cyclone Ditwah has triggered one of the worst natural disasters Sri Lanka has faced in recent years. Torrential rains, widespread flooding, and multiple landslides have resulted in a rapidly rising death toll. The Disaster Management Centre confirmed over 123 deaths, with more than 130 people missing across several districts.
More than 200,000 people from over 61,000 families have been affected as homes, roads, and public infrastructure collapsed under the pressure of continuous rainfall. Several districts, including Kandy and Badulla, reported alarming casualties due to landslides and flash floods that occurred without warning.
Authorities fear the numbers could rise significantly as remote regions remain inaccessible. Relief agencies are working to provide temporary shelters, but the extent of displacement has made rescue efforts increasingly challenging.
Critical Damage to Power and Infrastructure
The powerful cyclonic storm severely damaged Sri Lanka’s power grid. Nearly 35% of the country’s area is currently without electricity, affecting more than seven million consumers of the Ceylon Electricity Board. Repair and restoration work has been hindered by relentless rains and flooded access routes.
Major rivers and reservoirs have overflowed, prompting emergency warnings and mass evacuations. Authorities noted that water levels in multiple reservoirs crossed danger thresholds, increasing the likelihood of downstream flooding.
Transportation routes across the island have been heavily impacted. Landslides have blocked major highways, and washed-out bridges have further complicated rescue logistics. Emergency workers are relying on air and water routes to reach certain isolated areas.
India’s Continued Support Through Naval Deployment
India’s assistance to Sri Lanka extends beyond airlift operations. The Indian Navy has already dispatched initial consignments via INS Vikrant and INS Udaigiri, marking the early phase of Operation Sagar Bandhu. These vessels carried food, medicine, water purification systems, and temporary shelters.
The combination of naval and air support highlights the scale and urgency of India’s response. As worsening weather conditions threaten further destruction, the multi-layered approach ensures help arrives through all viable channels.
India’s proactive involvement has been widely acknowledged as a key factor in bolstering Sri Lanka’s disaster response capacity. The coordinated movement of aircraft, naval ships, and rescue personnel underscores the depth of cooperation between the two nations.
The Path Forward for Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka now faces the daunting task of restoring normalcy while still navigating severe weather conditions. The meteorological department has warned of additional rainfall exceeding 200 mm in several regions, further aggravating flood risks. With Cyclone Ditwah expected to exit the island soon, recovery efforts are likely to intensify in the coming days.
Electrical outages, damaged roads, disrupted communication networks, and rising health concerns pose significant challenges. International assistance, such as India’s intervention, will be crucial in restoring essential services and stabilising affected communities.
As more rescue teams arrive and relief distribution expands, the focus will shift from emergency response to rebuilding. For now, Operation Sagar Bandhu stands as a pivotal lifeline, delivering immediate support to millions affected by Sri Lanka’s worst natural calamity in years.
Also Read: Siddaramaiah–DKS Unite in Dramatic Show After Karnataka Rift
About the Author:
Harshit Raj
