Sri Lanka is reeling from the catastrophic effects of Cyclone Ditwah, which has resulted in extensive flooding and deadly landslides, claiming at least 123 lives. A significant number of people, estimated at 130, remain unaccounted for. The Kandy District has suffered the highest number of fatalities, with 51 deaths and 67 people missing. The Badulla District has also reported substantial losses, including 35 deaths and 27 missing.
The cyclone’s impact is widespread, affecting over 373,000 people across 102,000 families with severe floods, landslides, and high winds. Rescue efforts are ongoing, including a recent operation where approximately 40 individuals were safely evacuated from a bus trapped by rising floodwaters. Emergency personnel are working diligently to reach those affected.
In a show of solidarity, India has launched ‘Operation Sagar Bandhu’ to provide critical assistance to Sri Lanka. An NDRF contingent, equipped with specialized rescue gear and sniffer dogs, has arrived to support local authorities. Relief materials have been delivered via Indian naval ships, and an emergency help desk is operational to support Indian citizens.
Meanwhile, the IMD has alerted Tamil Nadu and Puducherry to the impending threat of Cyclone Ditwah. A red alert is in effect for several coastal districts where extremely heavy rainfall is forecast. Multiple NDRF teams have been deployed to these vulnerable regions, and additional units are en route to Chennai to enhance readiness for the cyclone’s anticipated landfall.