Sri Lanka is grappling with the devastating aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, which has unleashed severe flooding and deadly landslides across its territory. The cyclone’s fury has crippled infrastructure and forced numerous individuals to evacuate their homes. Rescue teams are actively engaged in recovery efforts across the profoundly affected districts.
According to official data, the cyclone has claimed 123 lives in Sri Lanka, with an additional 130 people reported missing. The Kandy District has suffered the most significant losses, tallying 51 deaths and 67 missing persons. Badulla District has recorded 35 fatalities and 27 missing. Other regions like Kegalle, Matale, Nuwara Eliya, and Ampara have also reported substantial casualties and missing individuals.
More than 373,000 people, comprising 102,877 families, have been impacted by the widespread floods, landslides, and powerful gales. A recent rescue operation successfully saved around 40 individuals from a bus that was swept away by floodwaters, highlighting the perilous conditions.
India has launched ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’ to support Sri Lanka’s relief efforts. An Indian Air Force aircraft delivered a contingent of 80 NDRF personnel, including sniffer dogs, along with essential disaster relief supplies. The Indian Navy’s INS Vikrant and INS Udaigiri have also contributed to the relief mission by delivering aid. Furthermore, the Indian High Commission in Colombo has established an emergency helpline for its citizens.
As Cyclone Ditwah approaches the Indian coast, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several districts in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall is predicted for Saturday in areas like Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Villupuram, Chengalpattu, and the Puducherry-Karaikal region. Sunday’s forecast indicates similar heavy downpours for Tiruvallur and Ranipet, with isolated heavy rain possible on Monday.
To prepare for the cyclone’s potential impact, 14 NDRF teams have been deployed to vulnerable coastal areas in Tamil Nadu. Additional teams are stationed in Puducherry, and more are being sent to Chennai. Continuous monitoring and coordination among various government agencies and meteorological departments are underway to manage the situation effectively.